Press release: ITU.
29th June 2008.
Monterrey, Mexico - New Zealand's Brent Foster and Mexico's Claudia Rivas took gold at yesterday's ITU Aquathlon World Championships in Monterrey, Mexico. The run-swim-run MultiSport event featured a $10,000 USD prize purse equal for men and women.
Rivas delighted the home crowds easily winning the women's title over compatriot Melody Ramirez. Rivas began the race with the fastest opening run split and managed to hold onto that lead through the 1-kilometer swim and the final run leg. Dunia Gomez made it a Mexican sweep of the women's podium with the bronze.
In the elite men's field, the Kiwi Foster used the fastest swim time of the men's field to propel him to victory. Down the final stretch he out-sprint Brazilian Antonio Mansur to become the Aquathlon world champion by a three second margin of victory. Mansur took silver for the second straight year while Mexican Crisanto Grajales came across the line for bronze, a further 11 seconds behind Mansur. Last year's champion Sergio Sarmiento finished just off the podium in fourth place.
2008 Monterrey ITU Aquathlon World Championships, 2.5km run, 1km swim, 2.5k run 28 June
Elite Women - Official Results
Gold - Rivas, Claudia (MEX) 00:34:30
Silver - Ramirez, Melody (MEX) 00:34:55
Bronze - Gomez, Dunia (MEX) 00:35:12
Elite Men - Official Results
Gold - Foster, Brent (NZL) 00:30:25
Silver - Mansur, Antonio (BRA) 00:30:28
Bronze - Grajales, Crisanto (MEX) 00:30:39
Monday, 30 June 2008
Brent Foster wins world Aquathlon title
Press release: Triathlon New Zealand.
30th June 2008.
Brent Foster turned back the clock in an incredible performance belying his 40 plus years with victory at the ITU World Aquathlon Championships in Mexico overnight New Zealand time.
41 year old Foster represented New Zealand in the pool at the 1986 and 1990 Commonwealth Games and competed at the 1998 World Surf Lifesaving Championships. He has also held the record for the quickest swim at Ironman NZ and is a regular at events such as the Stroke and Stride and Sovereign NZ Ocean Swim Series.
The quietly spoken Foster will have sent whoops of delight around the 40 plus brigade in the triathlon and multisport communities with his win, proving that age does note necessarily equate to any loss of speed, in particular as he showed typical determination to out sprint his much younger rival to win the title.
Foster's success comes on the back of spending three weeks training at altitude in Colorado with Beijing bound triathlete Debbie Tanner.
He becomes the second Kiwi to win the title, joining Shane Reed who won the event three times.
30th June 2008.
Brent Foster turned back the clock in an incredible performance belying his 40 plus years with victory at the ITU World Aquathlon Championships in Mexico overnight New Zealand time.
41 year old Foster represented New Zealand in the pool at the 1986 and 1990 Commonwealth Games and competed at the 1998 World Surf Lifesaving Championships. He has also held the record for the quickest swim at Ironman NZ and is a regular at events such as the Stroke and Stride and Sovereign NZ Ocean Swim Series.
The quietly spoken Foster will have sent whoops of delight around the 40 plus brigade in the triathlon and multisport communities with his win, proving that age does note necessarily equate to any loss of speed, in particular as he showed typical determination to out sprint his much younger rival to win the title.
Foster's success comes on the back of spending three weeks training at altitude in Colorado with Beijing bound triathlete Debbie Tanner.
He becomes the second Kiwi to win the title, joining Shane Reed who won the event three times.
Monday, 23 June 2008
Bevan Docherty in Des Moines money again
Press release: Triathlon New Zealand.
23 June 2008.
Taupo's Bevan Docherty has raced superbly in Des Moines Iowa this morning to pick up second place in the richest ITU World Cup event on the calendar.
Docherty paced himself throughout to sprint clear of Australian Greg Bennett in the closing stages but could not close the gap on winner Rasmus Henning (DEN), trailing the two time winner home by just 8 seconds.
Henning earns US$200,000 while Docherty picks up $40,000 for his work today but more importantly has once again shown he is in great shape with 8 weeks left until the Beijing Olympic Games.
Fellow Kiwi Shane Reed was with the lead pack throughout the swim and bike but faded on the run to finish 17th.
Docherty showed great strength on the run, leaving former world champions and renowned runners behind him as he picked up the pace over the final few kilometres, first dropping Simon Whitfield (CAN) then Ivan Rana (SPN) before shaking the attentions of Bennett 300m from the finish line.
Conditions were superb for the richest race on the ITU calendar with temperatures warm but not oppressive. However, due to the disastrous floods that have hit Iowa, the course had to be reconfigured and moved to West Des Moines nine days before the race.
The fields were top class with a number of nations using the event to finalise their Olympic teams, including the Americans who saw Hunter Kemper and Sarah Haskins claim the final spots for Beijing.
In the women's race it was an Australian one two in the absence of any Kiwis with Emma Snowsill taking home the $200,000USD first prize from her countrywoman Emma Moffat in second with recently crowned world champion Helen Tucker (GBR) third.
2008 Hy-Vee ITU Triathlon World Cup, 1.5km swim, 40km bike, 10km run
Elite Men
Gold – Rasmus Henning (DEN) 1:54:21
Silver – Bevan Docherty (NZL) +00:08
Bronze – Greg Bennett (AUS) + 00:11
4th Ivan Rana (SPN) +00:20
5th Simon Whitfield (CAN) + 00:28
Plus
17th Shane Reed (NZL) + 3:01
Elite Women
Gold - Emma Snowsill (AUS) 02:03:15
Silver - Emma Moffatt (AUS) 02:04:35
Bronze - Helen Tucker (GBR) 02:05:21
4th - Laura Bennett (USA) 02:05:30
5th - Liz Blatchford (GBR) 02:05:41
6th - Sarah Haskins (USA) 02:05:45
7th - Julie Ertel (USA) 02:07:12
8th - Becky Lavelle (USA) 02:07:44
9th - Sarah Groff (USA) 02:08:57
10th - Erin Densham (AUS) 02:08:59
23 June 2008.
Taupo's Bevan Docherty has raced superbly in Des Moines Iowa this morning to pick up second place in the richest ITU World Cup event on the calendar.
Docherty paced himself throughout to sprint clear of Australian Greg Bennett in the closing stages but could not close the gap on winner Rasmus Henning (DEN), trailing the two time winner home by just 8 seconds.
Henning earns US$200,000 while Docherty picks up $40,000 for his work today but more importantly has once again shown he is in great shape with 8 weeks left until the Beijing Olympic Games.
Fellow Kiwi Shane Reed was with the lead pack throughout the swim and bike but faded on the run to finish 17th.
Docherty showed great strength on the run, leaving former world champions and renowned runners behind him as he picked up the pace over the final few kilometres, first dropping Simon Whitfield (CAN) then Ivan Rana (SPN) before shaking the attentions of Bennett 300m from the finish line.
Conditions were superb for the richest race on the ITU calendar with temperatures warm but not oppressive. However, due to the disastrous floods that have hit Iowa, the course had to be reconfigured and moved to West Des Moines nine days before the race.
The fields were top class with a number of nations using the event to finalise their Olympic teams, including the Americans who saw Hunter Kemper and Sarah Haskins claim the final spots for Beijing.
In the women's race it was an Australian one two in the absence of any Kiwis with Emma Snowsill taking home the $200,000USD first prize from her countrywoman Emma Moffat in second with recently crowned world champion Helen Tucker (GBR) third.
2008 Hy-Vee ITU Triathlon World Cup, 1.5km swim, 40km bike, 10km run
Elite Men
Gold – Rasmus Henning (DEN) 1:54:21
Silver – Bevan Docherty (NZL) +00:08
Bronze – Greg Bennett (AUS) + 00:11
4th Ivan Rana (SPN) +00:20
5th Simon Whitfield (CAN) + 00:28
Plus
17th Shane Reed (NZL) + 3:01
Elite Women
Gold - Emma Snowsill (AUS) 02:03:15
Silver - Emma Moffatt (AUS) 02:04:35
Bronze - Helen Tucker (GBR) 02:05:21
4th - Laura Bennett (USA) 02:05:30
5th - Liz Blatchford (GBR) 02:05:41
6th - Sarah Haskins (USA) 02:05:45
7th - Julie Ertel (USA) 02:07:12
8th - Becky Lavelle (USA) 02:07:44
9th - Sarah Groff (USA) 02:08:57
10th - Erin Densham (AUS) 02:08:59
Friday, 20 June 2008
Iowa flooding crisis forces location change to richest race
Press Release: ITU.
19 June 2008.
Des Moines, Iowa, USA - The seventh stop of the 2008 BG Triathlon World Cup series rolls into America's heartland for this Sunday's Hy-Vee ITU Triathlon World Cup. Some of triathlon's biggest names have traveled to Des Moines for the richest race on the ITU calendar.
In the past few weeks race organizers have been scrambling to find a new course after the Iowa flooding disaster rendered the original course unsafe for athletes. Nine days before the race, the organizing committee moved the entire event to West Des Moines, approximately seven miles away. After days of water quality tests at the Blue Heron Lake, race officials deemed the course safe yesterday and gave the green light to proceed. The Hy-Vee ITU Triathlon World Cup has a $700,000 prize purse, the richest of any ITU race since this same event last year.
The hefty prize money, one of the largest of any triathlon in the world, has attracted a number of top international contenders, including Olympic silver medalist Bevan Docherty of New Zealand, 3-time world champion Emma Snowsill of Australia, 2006 world champion Tim Don of Great Britain, and compatriot and newly crowed world champion Helen Tucker.
Athletes to Watch - Elite Women:
Helen Tucker (GBR) - 2008 world champion
Emma Snowsill (AUS) - nominated to 2008 Australian Olympic team
Laura Bennett (USA) - last year's winner, nominated to 2008 U.S. Olympic team
Emma Moffatt (AUS) - nominated to 2008 Australian Olympic team, 2 world cup wins
Hollie Avil (GBR) - 2007 junior world champion, current world number 6
Julie Ertel (USA) - 2007 U.S. National Champion, nominated to 2008 U.S. Olympic team
Joelle Franzmann (GER) - 2000 & 2004 Olympian
Erin Densham (AUS) - nominated to 2008 Australian Olympic team
Athletes to Watch - Elite Men:
Bevan Docherty (NZL) - 2004 Olympic silver medalist, 2008 world championships silver medalist
Rasmus Henning (DEN) - last year's winner
Simon Whitfield (CAN) - nominated to 2008 Canadian Olympic team, 2000 Olympic gold medalist
Peter Robertson (AUS) - 3-time World Champion, 2000 & 2004 Olympian
Greg Bennett (AUS) - 6 world cup wins, 2004 Olympian
Andy Potts (USA) - 2004 Olympian, 2007 U.S. National Champion
Hunter Kemper (USA) - 2000 & 2004 Olympian, 3 world cup wins
Tim Don (GBR) - 2006 world champion
The hefty prize money, one of the largest of any triathlon in the world, has attracted a number of top international contenders, including Olympic silver medalist Bevan Docherty of New Zealand, 3-time world champion Emma Snowsill of Australia, 2006 world champion Tim Don of Great Britain, and compatriot and newly crowed world champion Helen Tucker.
For the home team, the final U.S. Olympic spots will be at stake this weekend. Past Olympians Hunter Kemper and Andy Potts will battle for the final men's ticket to Beijing while world championships silver medalist Sarah Haskins and Sarah Groff will duel for the last women's spot.
19 June 2008.
Des Moines, Iowa, USA - The seventh stop of the 2008 BG Triathlon World Cup series rolls into America's heartland for this Sunday's Hy-Vee ITU Triathlon World Cup. Some of triathlon's biggest names have traveled to Des Moines for the richest race on the ITU calendar.
In the past few weeks race organizers have been scrambling to find a new course after the Iowa flooding disaster rendered the original course unsafe for athletes. Nine days before the race, the organizing committee moved the entire event to West Des Moines, approximately seven miles away. After days of water quality tests at the Blue Heron Lake, race officials deemed the course safe yesterday and gave the green light to proceed. The Hy-Vee ITU Triathlon World Cup has a $700,000 prize purse, the richest of any ITU race since this same event last year.
The hefty prize money, one of the largest of any triathlon in the world, has attracted a number of top international contenders, including Olympic silver medalist Bevan Docherty of New Zealand, 3-time world champion Emma Snowsill of Australia, 2006 world champion Tim Don of Great Britain, and compatriot and newly crowed world champion Helen Tucker.
Athletes to Watch - Elite Women:
Helen Tucker (GBR) - 2008 world champion
Emma Snowsill (AUS) - nominated to 2008 Australian Olympic team
Laura Bennett (USA) - last year's winner, nominated to 2008 U.S. Olympic team
Emma Moffatt (AUS) - nominated to 2008 Australian Olympic team, 2 world cup wins
Hollie Avil (GBR) - 2007 junior world champion, current world number 6
Julie Ertel (USA) - 2007 U.S. National Champion, nominated to 2008 U.S. Olympic team
Joelle Franzmann (GER) - 2000 & 2004 Olympian
Erin Densham (AUS) - nominated to 2008 Australian Olympic team
Athletes to Watch - Elite Men:
Bevan Docherty (NZL) - 2004 Olympic silver medalist, 2008 world championships silver medalist
Rasmus Henning (DEN) - last year's winner
Simon Whitfield (CAN) - nominated to 2008 Canadian Olympic team, 2000 Olympic gold medalist
Peter Robertson (AUS) - 3-time World Champion, 2000 & 2004 Olympian
Greg Bennett (AUS) - 6 world cup wins, 2004 Olympian
Andy Potts (USA) - 2004 Olympian, 2007 U.S. National Champion
Hunter Kemper (USA) - 2000 & 2004 Olympian, 3 world cup wins
Tim Don (GBR) - 2006 world champion
The hefty prize money, one of the largest of any triathlon in the world, has attracted a number of top international contenders, including Olympic silver medalist Bevan Docherty of New Zealand, 3-time world champion Emma Snowsill of Australia, 2006 world champion Tim Don of Great Britain, and compatriot and newly crowed world champion Helen Tucker.
For the home team, the final U.S. Olympic spots will be at stake this weekend. Past Olympians Hunter Kemper and Andy Potts will battle for the final men's ticket to Beijing while world championships silver medalist Sarah Haskins and Sarah Groff will duel for the last women's spot.
Des Moines, next stop on way to Beijing
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
19th June 2008.
The ITU BG World Cup Triathlon circuit moves to Des Moines, Iowa this weekend with the running of the Hy-Vee World Cup, an event featuring the season's richest prize purse of US$700,000.
Kiwis Bevan Docherty (Taupo) and Shane Reed (New Plymouth) are the only New Zealand representatives in the race, with others choosing to bypass the event after racing at the World Championships in Vancouver a fortnight ago.
Docherty is in good spirits and optimistic of a good showing on Monday morning New Zealand time.
"My preparation is going very well and things are on track especially with the great result a fortnight back in Vancouver (second at the World Champs). I'm looking forward to another good race in Des Moines but will not lose sight that it is still just another stepping stone towards Beijing."
Docherty has a good record on the Des Moines course but will face new terrain this year due to recent bad weather that has left the region coping with flooding and organizers plotting a new course for the athletes.
"Since Vancouver I have been training at sea level in Wisconsin, with a spot of Tornado chasing on the side! Unfortunately due to the severe weather conditions here in the mid-west there have been a few course changes, however I'm sure the people of Des Moines will forget about the flooding for one day and put on a great race."
Docherty is backing himself though to put on a good display, regardless of where he has to swim, bike and run.
"Having finished second in this race last year I will be looking forward to going one better, as I know I'm in the shape to pull it off."
Reed has hardly been sighted on the international circuit since qualifying for Beijing, initially overcoming the hip and lower back injury suffered in the crash at Mooloolaba in March and then preferring to settle into his training for Beijing.
The New Plymouth athlete has been training at altitude in Boulder Colorado and will effectively race in Des Moines off the back of a heavy workload.
Conditions have been so severe in Iowa that organizers have not only changed the course but still have a duathlon event on stand by should water not recede or flooding return in the next few days.
The race has attracted a strong field, due in part to the prize money on offer but also with qualification for Beijing still teasing some athletes. Top of that list are Hunter Kemper and Andy Potts from America as both battle for the final spot on the American team for Beijing. Great Britain also has a full contingent including former World Champion Tim Don and up and coming sensation Alistair Brownlee.
Note: While Clark Ellice (NZL) is listed to start, he has since withdrawn and will not be competing.
19th June 2008.
The ITU BG World Cup Triathlon circuit moves to Des Moines, Iowa this weekend with the running of the Hy-Vee World Cup, an event featuring the season's richest prize purse of US$700,000.
Kiwis Bevan Docherty (Taupo) and Shane Reed (New Plymouth) are the only New Zealand representatives in the race, with others choosing to bypass the event after racing at the World Championships in Vancouver a fortnight ago.
Docherty is in good spirits and optimistic of a good showing on Monday morning New Zealand time.
"My preparation is going very well and things are on track especially with the great result a fortnight back in Vancouver (second at the World Champs). I'm looking forward to another good race in Des Moines but will not lose sight that it is still just another stepping stone towards Beijing."
Docherty has a good record on the Des Moines course but will face new terrain this year due to recent bad weather that has left the region coping with flooding and organizers plotting a new course for the athletes.
"Since Vancouver I have been training at sea level in Wisconsin, with a spot of Tornado chasing on the side! Unfortunately due to the severe weather conditions here in the mid-west there have been a few course changes, however I'm sure the people of Des Moines will forget about the flooding for one day and put on a great race."
Docherty is backing himself though to put on a good display, regardless of where he has to swim, bike and run.
"Having finished second in this race last year I will be looking forward to going one better, as I know I'm in the shape to pull it off."
Reed has hardly been sighted on the international circuit since qualifying for Beijing, initially overcoming the hip and lower back injury suffered in the crash at Mooloolaba in March and then preferring to settle into his training for Beijing.
The New Plymouth athlete has been training at altitude in Boulder Colorado and will effectively race in Des Moines off the back of a heavy workload.
Conditions have been so severe in Iowa that organizers have not only changed the course but still have a duathlon event on stand by should water not recede or flooding return in the next few days.
The race has attracted a strong field, due in part to the prize money on offer but also with qualification for Beijing still teasing some athletes. Top of that list are Hunter Kemper and Andy Potts from America as both battle for the final spot on the American team for Beijing. Great Britain also has a full contingent including former World Champion Tim Don and up and coming sensation Alistair Brownlee.
Note: While Clark Ellice (NZL) is listed to start, he has since withdrawn and will not be competing.
Tuesday, 17 June 2008
James Elvery June update
Letter from James Elvery.
11th June 2008.
Hi Everyone
I hope everything is going well wherever you are in the world. If petrol prices are getting you down, try NZ$3+/L here in Germany! What do I care about the price of gas..? The Civic is gathering dust (or snow) in a backyard in Christchurch! Well I.ve bought myself a new ride over here in Europe; A 1996 VW Golf Station wagon! I worked out the logistics of all the trips I was going to make getting to races all over Europe and priced up train passes, flights, hiring cars and the option of buying started to look like a good one. I worked out it was possible to get a pretty reasonably priced car in England, and with my Aunty Christine there to help get it registered and things like that I decided it was the way to go! Hopefully it lasts the summer and I can put it to good use again next year.
So to the triathlon news! I got over here in the middle of May after taking a full 2 week break after Moololaba and then a couple of interrupted weeks getting ready to depart. The day before Anna and I jumped on planes we had our graduation ceremonies. So a busy time! I wasn.t expecting my fitness to be too flash in my first 2 races. I spent the best part of my first week getting the car sorted in England then drove onto the channel ferry to France for my first race in Dunkerque. I met my new team Montlucon, got my new team tracksuit, bike clothes and race suit and jumped on the start line the next morning. This was my first experience in the French Grand Prix, and it was awesome!
The races are all sprint distance and a lot of the top world cup athletes race regularly. The swim was brutal with everyone sprinting together for 750m, going 7 wide around the buoys. I remember getting smacked in the swim and thinking it would be worth wearing a mouth guard! The bike was like a fast disorganised criterium with lots of tight corners, guys jumping curbs, roundabouts, cutting inside bunches on U turns etc. I was going well; a lot better than I had expected with a solid swim to put me in the front pack, and was slowly moving my way forward over the 20km bike. I had got up to the top 10 of the single file pace-line when with 1.5km to ride my drive side crank arm with chainrings and my foot still attached just dropped off my bike. I managed to stay upright, but the bike was unrideable. I jumped off and ripped off my shoes in the middle of the road and started running barefoot pushing the bike with chase bunches ripping around me. I lost about 3mins by the time I got in and ran an ok split. I ended up 65th out of 80, so not a great debut in the new colours or the best start to the trip! I had snapped the bolt which held on my Cannondale cranks (just too much power!). My team was very understanding and we are looking forward to doing a lot better in the remaining 4 rounds of the Grand Prix.
That afternoon I drove 8hrs from Dunkirk to Sigmaringen in Southern Germany to meet up with Anna who had arrived a week earlier. The car held up well and went beautifully on the Autobahn. Sigmaringen is a small town about 100km south of Stuttgart and 50km north of the Swiss border. ALZ Sigmaringen is the German team I have raced for since 2005 and this year with uni finished Anna is joining me here. This year we also have another Kiwi racing for us; Nathan Saunders, and an American guy Mike Orton. The team puts us up in a boarding school type accommodation building in the grounds of a high school and pays bonuses if we race well.
The town is really good for training with some great forests for running, smooth quiet roads for cycling and the Swiss Alps a short drive away for some big climbing training. We have free passes for the 50m outdoor pool and while there are no lane ropes, with 4 of us the German breaststrokers are getting the message pretty fast. This year we.ve sorted out wireless internet and with the car we are much more independent than in the first few years I was here. No more riding 60k with a backpack on to and from races or 5k walks with a suitcase to the supermarket and back!
One week after Dunkerque I was pulling on another team uniform and we were all in the team van heading for a place called Gladbeck near Cologne for Round one of the German Div 1 Bundesliga. This race is really short; 250m pool swim, 5.5km bike, 2.5km run. The field is split into 5 heats and then everyone.s times are ranked. I had problems again...getting totally disorientated in the transition area from bike to run. I had no idea where my running shoes were. The transition was held in a stadium which looked the same wherever you were standing. I thought I had the flow worked out pre race but I.d obviously been told wrong. I lost about 30 seconds and ran out last from my heat. I felt really good on the short run however and managed to move up to 6th in my heat and 22nd overall. I had the 8th fastest run overall and ran faster than the World Champion Daniel Unger.
In the afternoon they added the times from each team member.s morning race and set teams off for a sprint distance team time trial based on their overall ranking. We started 1:30 down on the leaders in 6th and held our position out of 13 teams. Team racing is completely different but a lot of fun. I always end up waiting for my team on the swim, then hurting like hell trying to do my bit in the German team time trial machine on the bike before physically pushing one or two guys on the run.
So after these first 2 races in which I didn.t expect too much fitness wise I was surprised with my form and chomping at the bit to get stuck into some work to produce some good results in the weeks to come.
After a week training in Sigmaringen getting Anna through her last hard workouts we drove her up to Frankfurt for the flight to Vancouver for the World Champs which have just been held over the weekend (June 8th). She was well prepared but suffered in the freezing conditions, 11 degree water; dropping off from her pack and getting lapped out of the race on the last lap of the bike while in 20th place. Well done to Bevan, Sam and Marty on your medals!
While Anna was away the boys decided to head down to Lake Konstanz for a couple of big training days. We drove to Switzerland and rode 4.5hrs entirely in the mountains. Memorable moments include staring at the green fields beside the road and wondering if I could eat grass to make the hunger go away, and reaching the ski field cafe at the top of the last pass and chowing down on German sausages, coke and French fries.
After a night camping out we kicked off day 2 with 8km in the most beautiful training pool in the world in Konstanz. This pool has just been completely redone, although it was fine before! Now its amazing, right next to the lakeside... showers better than a hotel... great water and finally lane ropes! After a couple of hours relaxing at the beach we finished ourselves off with a 2hr run in the forest, jumped back in the Golf and headed for home.
So after 3 weeks good solid training and some cooperative weather it.s now time to get back to the race track. This weekend Nathan and I are heading east to Lake Balaton in Hungary for an ITU Points race. A 10hr drive. For me this will be the first of 4 weekends in a row of competition, with Paris Grand Prix next weekend, Holten Netherlands ITU the week after and Beauvais Grand Prix after that. Then I get one weekend off then its another 4 for 4, then two weeks off and another 4 for 4. I hope I survive!
Thanks for your support
James
11th June 2008.
Hi Everyone
I hope everything is going well wherever you are in the world. If petrol prices are getting you down, try NZ$3+/L here in Germany! What do I care about the price of gas..? The Civic is gathering dust (or snow) in a backyard in Christchurch! Well I.ve bought myself a new ride over here in Europe; A 1996 VW Golf Station wagon! I worked out the logistics of all the trips I was going to make getting to races all over Europe and priced up train passes, flights, hiring cars and the option of buying started to look like a good one. I worked out it was possible to get a pretty reasonably priced car in England, and with my Aunty Christine there to help get it registered and things like that I decided it was the way to go! Hopefully it lasts the summer and I can put it to good use again next year.
So to the triathlon news! I got over here in the middle of May after taking a full 2 week break after Moololaba and then a couple of interrupted weeks getting ready to depart. The day before Anna and I jumped on planes we had our graduation ceremonies. So a busy time! I wasn.t expecting my fitness to be too flash in my first 2 races. I spent the best part of my first week getting the car sorted in England then drove onto the channel ferry to France for my first race in Dunkerque. I met my new team Montlucon, got my new team tracksuit, bike clothes and race suit and jumped on the start line the next morning. This was my first experience in the French Grand Prix, and it was awesome!
The races are all sprint distance and a lot of the top world cup athletes race regularly. The swim was brutal with everyone sprinting together for 750m, going 7 wide around the buoys. I remember getting smacked in the swim and thinking it would be worth wearing a mouth guard! The bike was like a fast disorganised criterium with lots of tight corners, guys jumping curbs, roundabouts, cutting inside bunches on U turns etc. I was going well; a lot better than I had expected with a solid swim to put me in the front pack, and was slowly moving my way forward over the 20km bike. I had got up to the top 10 of the single file pace-line when with 1.5km to ride my drive side crank arm with chainrings and my foot still attached just dropped off my bike. I managed to stay upright, but the bike was unrideable. I jumped off and ripped off my shoes in the middle of the road and started running barefoot pushing the bike with chase bunches ripping around me. I lost about 3mins by the time I got in and ran an ok split. I ended up 65th out of 80, so not a great debut in the new colours or the best start to the trip! I had snapped the bolt which held on my Cannondale cranks (just too much power!). My team was very understanding and we are looking forward to doing a lot better in the remaining 4 rounds of the Grand Prix.
That afternoon I drove 8hrs from Dunkirk to Sigmaringen in Southern Germany to meet up with Anna who had arrived a week earlier. The car held up well and went beautifully on the Autobahn. Sigmaringen is a small town about 100km south of Stuttgart and 50km north of the Swiss border. ALZ Sigmaringen is the German team I have raced for since 2005 and this year with uni finished Anna is joining me here. This year we also have another Kiwi racing for us; Nathan Saunders, and an American guy Mike Orton. The team puts us up in a boarding school type accommodation building in the grounds of a high school and pays bonuses if we race well.
The town is really good for training with some great forests for running, smooth quiet roads for cycling and the Swiss Alps a short drive away for some big climbing training. We have free passes for the 50m outdoor pool and while there are no lane ropes, with 4 of us the German breaststrokers are getting the message pretty fast. This year we.ve sorted out wireless internet and with the car we are much more independent than in the first few years I was here. No more riding 60k with a backpack on to and from races or 5k walks with a suitcase to the supermarket and back!
One week after Dunkerque I was pulling on another team uniform and we were all in the team van heading for a place called Gladbeck near Cologne for Round one of the German Div 1 Bundesliga. This race is really short; 250m pool swim, 5.5km bike, 2.5km run. The field is split into 5 heats and then everyone.s times are ranked. I had problems again...getting totally disorientated in the transition area from bike to run. I had no idea where my running shoes were. The transition was held in a stadium which looked the same wherever you were standing. I thought I had the flow worked out pre race but I.d obviously been told wrong. I lost about 30 seconds and ran out last from my heat. I felt really good on the short run however and managed to move up to 6th in my heat and 22nd overall. I had the 8th fastest run overall and ran faster than the World Champion Daniel Unger.
In the afternoon they added the times from each team member.s morning race and set teams off for a sprint distance team time trial based on their overall ranking. We started 1:30 down on the leaders in 6th and held our position out of 13 teams. Team racing is completely different but a lot of fun. I always end up waiting for my team on the swim, then hurting like hell trying to do my bit in the German team time trial machine on the bike before physically pushing one or two guys on the run.
So after these first 2 races in which I didn.t expect too much fitness wise I was surprised with my form and chomping at the bit to get stuck into some work to produce some good results in the weeks to come.
After a week training in Sigmaringen getting Anna through her last hard workouts we drove her up to Frankfurt for the flight to Vancouver for the World Champs which have just been held over the weekend (June 8th). She was well prepared but suffered in the freezing conditions, 11 degree water; dropping off from her pack and getting lapped out of the race on the last lap of the bike while in 20th place. Well done to Bevan, Sam and Marty on your medals!
While Anna was away the boys decided to head down to Lake Konstanz for a couple of big training days. We drove to Switzerland and rode 4.5hrs entirely in the mountains. Memorable moments include staring at the green fields beside the road and wondering if I could eat grass to make the hunger go away, and reaching the ski field cafe at the top of the last pass and chowing down on German sausages, coke and French fries.
After a night camping out we kicked off day 2 with 8km in the most beautiful training pool in the world in Konstanz. This pool has just been completely redone, although it was fine before! Now its amazing, right next to the lakeside... showers better than a hotel... great water and finally lane ropes! After a couple of hours relaxing at the beach we finished ourselves off with a 2hr run in the forest, jumped back in the Golf and headed for home.
So after 3 weeks good solid training and some cooperative weather it.s now time to get back to the race track. This weekend Nathan and I are heading east to Lake Balaton in Hungary for an ITU Points race. A 10hr drive. For me this will be the first of 4 weekends in a row of competition, with Paris Grand Prix next weekend, Holten Netherlands ITU the week after and Beauvais Grand Prix after that. Then I get one weekend off then its another 4 for 4, then two weeks off and another 4 for 4. I hope I survive!
Thanks for your support
James
Top ten eludes Cabin again
Letter from Mark Leishman.
17th June 2008.
Hi all,
Am recovering today from another brutal day 'at the office' in yesterdays XTERRA East Championship in Richmond.
I put together a pretty solid race, again showing big improvements on my 2007 performance in all 3 disciplines, to post another 11th place, and move to 14th in the series (despite only competing in 2 of the 3 races).
Whilst disappointed to miss the elusive top 10, I can take heart in that outside of two gentlemen by the names of Hamish Carter and Bevan Docherty... I am now the best performed Kiwi pro at this level of XTERRA internationally
The quality of these races continually improves, and depth of the pro fields just gets better and better. My own race was again nearly 10min better than last year (when I was 13th), yet only good enough for 11th! In fact yesterday I was less than 3min off the podium. So things are encouraging, my performances are continuing to improve, and I am excited about what I may be able to do at Maui in October.
Meanwhile Nic set aside a pretty serious bout of flu (crazy when its like 30 degrees everyday), to finish 9th in the 15 strong pro women's field. Pretty impressive for someone new to the sport of mountainbiking let alone triathlon! I'd like to claim the credit due to my coaching/management etc... but I think there might be a little bit more too it than that!
I have cut and pasted my website report below. Time to go and pack, as we're off home tomorrow.
Take Care
Cabin
I have a wee problem. This XTERRA thing is kind of a big deal over here in the States. Which means things just keep getting more competitive. And results tougher to come by. So when yesterday, on Richmond's gnarly urban assault course also known as XTERRA East, I improved my own performance by nearly 10mins over last year (when I was 13th)..... it was only good enough for 11th.
So that US Pro tour top 10 still eludes me. Just.
Richmond is simply a cool race. Cool enough it really is worth flying halfway across the world for. The short 1000m swim has to be seen to be believed. Held in the James river, its a water borne obstacle course. Shallow enough in places to lead to numerous beached whale impersonations, yet such a rock and debris strewn bottom to make dolphin diving (or even running) not really an option either. Richmond is probably the only triathlon you can expect to come out of the swim cut and bruised.
This leads to an amazing MTB course. Tight twisty and demanding singletrack. With staircases, railway crossings, culverts, storm water drains. You name it. Followed by a fast 11km including everything from roads, to single track, stairs, old river beds and even ladders. Like I said, its gnarly. And you'd better bring your A game.
Unfortunately, I was sick after last week, and pretty much did nothing all week. So I was a little unsure. But I've learned to trust my ability and the training that has come before, so was on a mission for that top 10. Sadly, I messed up the 'swim' a little. With a separate pro start it was a great opportunity to get that elusive tow on the strongest swimmers feet. But after a bad choice in starting technique in the waist deep water I lost those feet in oh, about 10m.
I salvaged something at least, but was disappointed to still give up 3min to the front, and came out one of the last of the 24 pro men. This was certainly a missed opportunity. Out onto the bike course and time to go to work. There were a few exciting moments as I made error after error in the first 20min. even managing to ride off the side of a 6ft high concrete 'bridge' that I've never even thought twice about in the past. Amazingly, I got away with that without major damage, and eventually got things moving, picking my way back through the field. Moving well, but cautious to save a little for the run.
In a reply from last week Ryan Ignatz and I rode the last third together after I finally caught him, and worked together to transition. After a 6th fastest bike split I was a little dismayed to learn we'd only made it up to 11th. Frustrated I chased Ryan out onto the run, and was moving well. I soon lost contact with Ryan which wasn't too surprising, as he proceeded to post the fastest run of the day. I focussed on turnover an d kept things going, pushing all the way and closing with a 39min 11km trail run almost 4min than I did last year.
11th. 7min off the win, and less than three from the podium. In fact, 5-8 were within about 40sec of each other. As I said, this field has some depth these days!
So I'm pretty encouraged looking to Maui. I'm now in the mix in these races. I'm putting myself in solid positions and giving myself a shot at a top result. The only disappointment's is that its time to go home. Whilst the XTERRA crew have invited us to race the next two pro tour events (Utah in August, and Tahoe in October), and a top ten pro series result is a realistic target; the credit cards aren't too happy with me at the moment!
So it's back home to work, to winter, and a focussed buildup to the World Champs. Training won't be easy, but the carrot of World Championships dangling should provide motivation enough.
17th June 2008.
Hi all,
Am recovering today from another brutal day 'at the office' in yesterdays XTERRA East Championship in Richmond.
I put together a pretty solid race, again showing big improvements on my 2007 performance in all 3 disciplines, to post another 11th place, and move to 14th in the series (despite only competing in 2 of the 3 races).
Whilst disappointed to miss the elusive top 10, I can take heart in that outside of two gentlemen by the names of Hamish Carter and Bevan Docherty... I am now the best performed Kiwi pro at this level of XTERRA internationally
The quality of these races continually improves, and depth of the pro fields just gets better and better. My own race was again nearly 10min better than last year (when I was 13th), yet only good enough for 11th! In fact yesterday I was less than 3min off the podium. So things are encouraging, my performances are continuing to improve, and I am excited about what I may be able to do at Maui in October.
Meanwhile Nic set aside a pretty serious bout of flu (crazy when its like 30 degrees everyday), to finish 9th in the 15 strong pro women's field. Pretty impressive for someone new to the sport of mountainbiking let alone triathlon! I'd like to claim the credit due to my coaching/management etc... but I think there might be a little bit more too it than that!
I have cut and pasted my website report below. Time to go and pack, as we're off home tomorrow.
Take Care
Cabin
I have a wee problem. This XTERRA thing is kind of a big deal over here in the States. Which means things just keep getting more competitive. And results tougher to come by. So when yesterday, on Richmond's gnarly urban assault course also known as XTERRA East, I improved my own performance by nearly 10mins over last year (when I was 13th)..... it was only good enough for 11th.
So that US Pro tour top 10 still eludes me. Just.
Richmond is simply a cool race. Cool enough it really is worth flying halfway across the world for. The short 1000m swim has to be seen to be believed. Held in the James river, its a water borne obstacle course. Shallow enough in places to lead to numerous beached whale impersonations, yet such a rock and debris strewn bottom to make dolphin diving (or even running) not really an option either. Richmond is probably the only triathlon you can expect to come out of the swim cut and bruised.
This leads to an amazing MTB course. Tight twisty and demanding singletrack. With staircases, railway crossings, culverts, storm water drains. You name it. Followed by a fast 11km including everything from roads, to single track, stairs, old river beds and even ladders. Like I said, its gnarly. And you'd better bring your A game.
Unfortunately, I was sick after last week, and pretty much did nothing all week. So I was a little unsure. But I've learned to trust my ability and the training that has come before, so was on a mission for that top 10. Sadly, I messed up the 'swim' a little. With a separate pro start it was a great opportunity to get that elusive tow on the strongest swimmers feet. But after a bad choice in starting technique in the waist deep water I lost those feet in oh, about 10m.
I salvaged something at least, but was disappointed to still give up 3min to the front, and came out one of the last of the 24 pro men. This was certainly a missed opportunity. Out onto the bike course and time to go to work. There were a few exciting moments as I made error after error in the first 20min. even managing to ride off the side of a 6ft high concrete 'bridge' that I've never even thought twice about in the past. Amazingly, I got away with that without major damage, and eventually got things moving, picking my way back through the field. Moving well, but cautious to save a little for the run.
In a reply from last week Ryan Ignatz and I rode the last third together after I finally caught him, and worked together to transition. After a 6th fastest bike split I was a little dismayed to learn we'd only made it up to 11th. Frustrated I chased Ryan out onto the run, and was moving well. I soon lost contact with Ryan which wasn't too surprising, as he proceeded to post the fastest run of the day. I focussed on turnover an d kept things going, pushing all the way and closing with a 39min 11km trail run almost 4min than I did last year.
11th. 7min off the win, and less than three from the podium. In fact, 5-8 were within about 40sec of each other. As I said, this field has some depth these days!
So I'm pretty encouraged looking to Maui. I'm now in the mix in these races. I'm putting myself in solid positions and giving myself a shot at a top result. The only disappointment's is that its time to go home. Whilst the XTERRA crew have invited us to race the next two pro tour events (Utah in August, and Tahoe in October), and a top ten pro series result is a realistic target; the credit cards aren't too happy with me at the moment!
So it's back home to work, to winter, and a focussed buildup to the World Champs. Training won't be easy, but the carrot of World Championships dangling should provide motivation enough.
Kansas 70.3: Bozzone wins, Lawn second
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
16th June 2008.
Terenzo Bozzone finished first and Jo Lawn second in a great day for New Zealand Triathlon as the Kiwis dominated the Kansas 70.3 (Half-Ironman) overnight New Zealand time.
The race was similar conditions wise to Hawaii, venue for the World Championship race in early October with no wetsuits, a hilly and windy bike course and hot conditions on the run.
Jo Lawn had been struggling with illness since her arrival in the States, forcing her to miss last weekend's Eagleman race so her primary objective overnight was to bike quickly.
This she did with the fastest bike split on the day – by an incredible four and a half minutes. Lawn eventually came up just 29 seconds short of victory, finishing second behind Samantha McClone.
Next up for Lawn is Texas in two weeks, again with conditions expected to mirror that of Hawaii with a non-wetsuit swim and hot, hilly and tough for the bike and run.
Victory for Bozzone continued a great run for the Kiwi, following his win at the Boise 70.3 and a runner up finish last week at Maryland in the Eagleman race – during which a drafting penalty cost him another win.
Bozzone was delighted with the win, one that didn't come easily.
"The swim was okay, Simon Lessing (GBR) pushed the pace early on and surprisingly a small bunch hung around. We headed onto the bike with four other guys including Lessing and Craig Alexander (AUS), winner and runner up at the 2006 half Ironman world champs and I had nothing in the tank, so soon I found myself riding solo about 1 minute behind.
"I wanted to stop, I couldn't find any rhythm and had no power, I told myself things would change as the race unfolded, when the blood started moving to my sore muscles, but it felt like things were getting worse from 30-40km and I was starting to get worried. Then all of a sudden something snapped and I was back to my normal self. I made up the deficit and then put 1 minute on Craig and TJ Tollenson.
"Onto the run and I knew I was going to have to pull something special out to hold off Alexander, I pushed the first couple miles which I ended up paying for the next 10miles, whoops! I could feel my calves and quads on the verge of cramping but nothing bad enough to stop my stride. I crossed the line with a 3 minute lead. I am glad I don't have another race next week."
Meanwhile Bryan Rhodes did not finish the UK 70.3 overnight. Taupo's Rhodes was second out of the water but faded on the bike to 15th but did not register a time on the run. There are no other details available at present.
Kansas 70.3 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run
Elite Men
Terenzo Bozzone; swim 27.21, bike 2:11:43, run 1:15:49, total 3:56:06, 1st place
Elite Women
Jo Lawn; swim 30:34, bike 2:21:44, run 1:25:31, total 4:19:32, 2nd place
16th June 2008.
Terenzo Bozzone finished first and Jo Lawn second in a great day for New Zealand Triathlon as the Kiwis dominated the Kansas 70.3 (Half-Ironman) overnight New Zealand time.
The race was similar conditions wise to Hawaii, venue for the World Championship race in early October with no wetsuits, a hilly and windy bike course and hot conditions on the run.
Jo Lawn had been struggling with illness since her arrival in the States, forcing her to miss last weekend's Eagleman race so her primary objective overnight was to bike quickly.
This she did with the fastest bike split on the day – by an incredible four and a half minutes. Lawn eventually came up just 29 seconds short of victory, finishing second behind Samantha McClone.
Next up for Lawn is Texas in two weeks, again with conditions expected to mirror that of Hawaii with a non-wetsuit swim and hot, hilly and tough for the bike and run.
Victory for Bozzone continued a great run for the Kiwi, following his win at the Boise 70.3 and a runner up finish last week at Maryland in the Eagleman race – during which a drafting penalty cost him another win.
Bozzone was delighted with the win, one that didn't come easily.
"The swim was okay, Simon Lessing (GBR) pushed the pace early on and surprisingly a small bunch hung around. We headed onto the bike with four other guys including Lessing and Craig Alexander (AUS), winner and runner up at the 2006 half Ironman world champs and I had nothing in the tank, so soon I found myself riding solo about 1 minute behind.
"I wanted to stop, I couldn't find any rhythm and had no power, I told myself things would change as the race unfolded, when the blood started moving to my sore muscles, but it felt like things were getting worse from 30-40km and I was starting to get worried. Then all of a sudden something snapped and I was back to my normal self. I made up the deficit and then put 1 minute on Craig and TJ Tollenson.
"Onto the run and I knew I was going to have to pull something special out to hold off Alexander, I pushed the first couple miles which I ended up paying for the next 10miles, whoops! I could feel my calves and quads on the verge of cramping but nothing bad enough to stop my stride. I crossed the line with a 3 minute lead. I am glad I don't have another race next week."
Meanwhile Bryan Rhodes did not finish the UK 70.3 overnight. Taupo's Rhodes was second out of the water but faded on the bike to 15th but did not register a time on the run. There are no other details available at present.
Kansas 70.3 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run
Elite Men
Terenzo Bozzone; swim 27.21, bike 2:11:43, run 1:15:49, total 3:56:06, 1st place
Elite Women
Jo Lawn; swim 30:34, bike 2:21:44, run 1:25:31, total 4:19:32, 2nd place
Saturday, 14 June 2008
New Zealand tops Olympic qualification rankings
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
12th June, 2008.
Triathlon New Zealand has today had confirmation that all six athletes nominated for the Beijing Olympic Games will indeed be on the start line in August.
While athletes had met the criteria and the NZOC had approved their selection, the final approval came from the International Triathlon Union yesterday when the ITU's 2 year qualification period ended following the Vancouver World Championships.
Essentially that process finds the top 8 countries in the sport, each of which earns 3 spots on the start line in either men's or women's races (rankings are separate for both).
In an incredible story for a country the size of New Zealand, the sport of triathlon here has topped the Olympic qualification rankings in men and is ranked second in the women, clearly marking New Zealand as the current number one nation in the sport worldwide based on the depth of its third ranked athletes.
Triathlon NZ CEO Dave Beeche says it is a huge achievement for the sport.
"Earning 3 automatic spots on the start line in both men's and women's races at Beijing is no mean feat. Competition in the sport is growing day by day with new countries and new athletes making great improvements in their performances and rankings, putting pressure on some of the traditional power houses in the sport. It is incredible to think that Spain and Australia are two that have missed the maximum representation of athletes, putting in perspective just how competitive the sport is worldwide.
"This is testament to our qualification programme but also to the depth of athletes we have on the world stage. Take it one step further and consider that other countries would love to have the likes of Terenzo Bozzone and Nicky Samuels racing for them in Beijing, and they are both fourth ranked in New Zealand and have missed games selection. In Bevan, Kris, Shane, Sam, Debbie and Andrea we have one of the strongest teams we have ever sent away to a major championship, one that will do us proud I'm sure."
The International Triathlon Union ranks countries for the purpose of awarding starting positions in both men's and women's races, with fields limited to 55 athletes in each.
New Zealand Olympic Team
Bevan Docherty, Taupo
Kris Gemmell, Palmerston North
Shane Reed, New Plymouth
Samantha Warriner, Whangarei
Debbie Tanner, Auckland
Andrea Hewitt, Christchurch
12th June, 2008.
Triathlon New Zealand has today had confirmation that all six athletes nominated for the Beijing Olympic Games will indeed be on the start line in August.
While athletes had met the criteria and the NZOC had approved their selection, the final approval came from the International Triathlon Union yesterday when the ITU's 2 year qualification period ended following the Vancouver World Championships.
Essentially that process finds the top 8 countries in the sport, each of which earns 3 spots on the start line in either men's or women's races (rankings are separate for both).
In an incredible story for a country the size of New Zealand, the sport of triathlon here has topped the Olympic qualification rankings in men and is ranked second in the women, clearly marking New Zealand as the current number one nation in the sport worldwide based on the depth of its third ranked athletes.
Triathlon NZ CEO Dave Beeche says it is a huge achievement for the sport.
"Earning 3 automatic spots on the start line in both men's and women's races at Beijing is no mean feat. Competition in the sport is growing day by day with new countries and new athletes making great improvements in their performances and rankings, putting pressure on some of the traditional power houses in the sport. It is incredible to think that Spain and Australia are two that have missed the maximum representation of athletes, putting in perspective just how competitive the sport is worldwide.
"This is testament to our qualification programme but also to the depth of athletes we have on the world stage. Take it one step further and consider that other countries would love to have the likes of Terenzo Bozzone and Nicky Samuels racing for them in Beijing, and they are both fourth ranked in New Zealand and have missed games selection. In Bevan, Kris, Shane, Sam, Debbie and Andrea we have one of the strongest teams we have ever sent away to a major championship, one that will do us proud I'm sure."
The International Triathlon Union ranks countries for the purpose of awarding starting positions in both men's and women's races, with fields limited to 55 athletes in each.
New Zealand Olympic Team
Bevan Docherty, Taupo
Kris Gemmell, Palmerston North
Shane Reed, New Plymouth
Samantha Warriner, Whangarei
Debbie Tanner, Auckland
Andrea Hewitt, Christchurch
Friday, 13 June 2008
37 countries in Olympic triathlons
Press Release: ITU.
10th June, 2008.
Vancouver, Canada - The International Triathlon Union has issued the preliminary number of Olympic triathlon spots each country has earned with the conclusion of the Vancouver BG Triathlon World Championships this past weekend, the final event in ITU's 2-year Olympic qualifying period. Only eight countries may send the maximum three men and three women to the Beijing Olympic Games.
The Olympic fields are capped at 55 men and 55 women. In all, 37 different countries will be represented at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games triathlon. An increase on the 32 countries represented in Athens in 2004.
The top countries in the women's Olympic rankings that will send the maximum of three women to Beijing are:
1 - United States
2 - New Zealand
3 - Germany
4 - Australia
5 - Japan
6 - Switzerland
7 - Canada
8 - Austria
With Sarah Haskins' silver medal at world championships, the United States leapt to the top of the standings. Kate Allen's eighth place finish at the world championships, coupled with a poor performance by France's Marion Lorblanchet and the absence of Britain's Michelle Dillon, pulled Austria ahead of France and Great Britain for the final place.
The top countries in the men's Olympic rankings that will send the maximum of three men to Beijing are:
1 - New Zealand
2 - Germany
3 - Great Britain
4 - France
5 - United States
6 - Switzerland
7 - Russia
8 - Canada
Going into the men's world championship race on Sunday, four countries were in a fierce battle for the final three spots. However, Australia struggled in Vancouver and for the first time will not send a full men's team to the Olympics. In contrast, for the first time Canada and Russia will be able to send three men to Beijing.
Click here for a full list of countries who have qualified to compete in the triathlon competition of the Beijing Olympic Games.
National Olympic Committees (NOCs) have until July 6 to inform ITU of use of qualification places. Many National Federations have already nominated athletes however, all Olympic teams will be official on July 6. A continually updated list of nominated athletes is available at ITU's Olympic site.
10th June, 2008.
Vancouver, Canada - The International Triathlon Union has issued the preliminary number of Olympic triathlon spots each country has earned with the conclusion of the Vancouver BG Triathlon World Championships this past weekend, the final event in ITU's 2-year Olympic qualifying period. Only eight countries may send the maximum three men and three women to the Beijing Olympic Games.
The Olympic fields are capped at 55 men and 55 women. In all, 37 different countries will be represented at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games triathlon. An increase on the 32 countries represented in Athens in 2004.
The top countries in the women's Olympic rankings that will send the maximum of three women to Beijing are:
1 - United States
2 - New Zealand
3 - Germany
4 - Australia
5 - Japan
6 - Switzerland
7 - Canada
8 - Austria
With Sarah Haskins' silver medal at world championships, the United States leapt to the top of the standings. Kate Allen's eighth place finish at the world championships, coupled with a poor performance by France's Marion Lorblanchet and the absence of Britain's Michelle Dillon, pulled Austria ahead of France and Great Britain for the final place.
The top countries in the men's Olympic rankings that will send the maximum of three men to Beijing are:
1 - New Zealand
2 - Germany
3 - Great Britain
4 - France
5 - United States
6 - Switzerland
7 - Russia
8 - Canada
Going into the men's world championship race on Sunday, four countries were in a fierce battle for the final three spots. However, Australia struggled in Vancouver and for the first time will not send a full men's team to the Olympics. In contrast, for the first time Canada and Russia will be able to send three men to Beijing.
Click here for a full list of countries who have qualified to compete in the triathlon competition of the Beijing Olympic Games.
National Olympic Committees (NOCs) have until July 6 to inform ITU of use of qualification places. Many National Federations have already nominated athletes however, all Olympic teams will be official on July 6. A continually updated list of nominated athletes is available at ITU's Olympic site.
Tuesday, 10 June 2008
Cabin Leishman keeps NZ flag flying on busy weekend
Letter from Mark Leishman.
10th June 2008.
Hi all,
I finished a pretty solid 11th yesterday at the XTERRA Southeast Championship in Pelham, Alabama yesterday.After a comfortable win at the regional XTERRA Smith Lake in Nth Carolina two weeks ago, this was an entirely different challenge at the top level... and proved to be a very tough day at the office for all. And while a little dissapointed to barely miss the pro top 10, it was a great improvement on my previous international performances as I put together a solid all round performance across the discipline.
And is very encouraging looking further ahead this year. We move onto to Richmond, Virginia this week for the next stop on the pro tour, the East Championship on a great course that plays to my strengths. Looking forward to another solid performance this weekend
For details of yesterdays race (and somewhat of a report!) have a look at the postings on my blog @ www.cabinracing.com
Regards
Cabin
www.cabinracing.com
10th June 2008.
Hi all,
I finished a pretty solid 11th yesterday at the XTERRA Southeast Championship in Pelham, Alabama yesterday.After a comfortable win at the regional XTERRA Smith Lake in Nth Carolina two weeks ago, this was an entirely different challenge at the top level... and proved to be a very tough day at the office for all. And while a little dissapointed to barely miss the pro top 10, it was a great improvement on my previous international performances as I put together a solid all round performance across the discipline.
And is very encouraging looking further ahead this year. We move onto to Richmond, Virginia this week for the next stop on the pro tour, the East Championship on a great course that plays to my strengths. Looking forward to another solid performance this weekend
For details of yesterdays race (and somewhat of a report!) have a look at the postings on my blog @ www.cabinracing.com
Regards
Cabin
www.cabinracing.com
Time penalty cost Bozzone Eagleman win
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
9th June 2008
Continuing what has turned into one of the busiest and most successful days in the sports history; Terenzo Bozzone and Fiona Docherty have recorded top five finishes in the Eagleman 70.3 triathlon.
Today has already delivered 3 World Championship medals (Martin Van Barneveld bronze U23 men, Sam Warriner bronze elite women, Bevan Docherty silver elite men) and a top ten for Debbie Tanner in Vancouver, a runner up finish for Graham O’Grady and a top ten for Gina Ferguson at the Escape from Alcatraz triathlon in San Francisco.
Now comes news that Terenzo Bozzone and Fiona Docherty have finished high on the leader board at the Eagleman 70.3 Triathlon in Cambridge, Maryland USA.
The race is competed over a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike and 13.1 mile run (to make up the 70.3 mile total distance). Conditions were extremely hot and humid for the running of the race, with many comparing it to a day at Kona for the Hawaii Ironman World Championships.
Bozzone raced superbly despite backing up from his win at the inaugural Boise 70.3 last weekend and was only robbed of victory by a 4 minute stand down penalty. The contentious penalty was picked up on the bike leg as Bozzone passed a competitor before 'moving back in' to a gap in a group of riders when the rules state you must continue to pass all riders during such a movement.
Bozzone finished just under 3 minutes behind ex-pat Kiwi and now Great British athlete Paul Amey and a minute clear of American Chris Legh.
The North Shore athlete now heads to Kansas next weekend for his third 70.3 race in successive weekends, no doubt hoping for a little more luck from the race officials.
For Docherty it was a blistering run leg that propelled her into fourth place after losing time to the leaders on both the swim and bike legs. Her fourth place comes at almost the same time as brother Bevan was winning silver at the World Triathlon Championships in Vancouver.
Eagleman 70.3 Triathlon, Maryland USA
Elite Men Athlete Swim Bike Run Total
Amey, Paul GBR 00:25:40 02:09:23 01:15:31 03:53:32
Bozzone, Terenzo NZL 00:25:39 02:13:16 01:14:21 03:56:23 * Includes 4 Minute Penalty
Legh, Christopher USA 00:28:00 02:06:54 01:19:23 03:57:23
Elite Women Athlete Swim Bike Run Time
Zeiger, Joanna, USA 00:25:37 02:22:39 01:30:34 04:22:31
Griesbauer, Dede, USA 00:26:12 02:25:54 01:34:32 04:30:23
Handel, Kelly, USA 00:27:26 02:32:34 01:28:44 04:31:57
Docherty, Fiona, NZL 00:30:52 02:36:21 01:25:33 04:36:16
9th June 2008
Continuing what has turned into one of the busiest and most successful days in the sports history; Terenzo Bozzone and Fiona Docherty have recorded top five finishes in the Eagleman 70.3 triathlon.
Today has already delivered 3 World Championship medals (Martin Van Barneveld bronze U23 men, Sam Warriner bronze elite women, Bevan Docherty silver elite men) and a top ten for Debbie Tanner in Vancouver, a runner up finish for Graham O’Grady and a top ten for Gina Ferguson at the Escape from Alcatraz triathlon in San Francisco.
Now comes news that Terenzo Bozzone and Fiona Docherty have finished high on the leader board at the Eagleman 70.3 Triathlon in Cambridge, Maryland USA.
The race is competed over a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike and 13.1 mile run (to make up the 70.3 mile total distance). Conditions were extremely hot and humid for the running of the race, with many comparing it to a day at Kona for the Hawaii Ironman World Championships.
Bozzone raced superbly despite backing up from his win at the inaugural Boise 70.3 last weekend and was only robbed of victory by a 4 minute stand down penalty. The contentious penalty was picked up on the bike leg as Bozzone passed a competitor before 'moving back in' to a gap in a group of riders when the rules state you must continue to pass all riders during such a movement.
Bozzone finished just under 3 minutes behind ex-pat Kiwi and now Great British athlete Paul Amey and a minute clear of American Chris Legh.
The North Shore athlete now heads to Kansas next weekend for his third 70.3 race in successive weekends, no doubt hoping for a little more luck from the race officials.
For Docherty it was a blistering run leg that propelled her into fourth place after losing time to the leaders on both the swim and bike legs. Her fourth place comes at almost the same time as brother Bevan was winning silver at the World Triathlon Championships in Vancouver.
Eagleman 70.3 Triathlon, Maryland USA
Elite Men Athlete Swim Bike Run Total
Amey, Paul GBR 00:25:40 02:09:23 01:15:31 03:53:32
Bozzone, Terenzo NZL 00:25:39 02:13:16 01:14:21 03:56:23 * Includes 4 Minute Penalty
Legh, Christopher USA 00:28:00 02:06:54 01:19:23 03:57:23
Elite Women Athlete Swim Bike Run Time
Zeiger, Joanna, USA 00:25:37 02:22:39 01:30:34 04:22:31
Griesbauer, Dede, USA 00:26:12 02:25:54 01:34:32 04:30:23
Handel, Kelly, USA 00:27:26 02:32:34 01:28:44 04:31:57
Docherty, Fiona, NZL 00:30:52 02:36:21 01:25:33 04:36:16
Graham O'Grady second to Escape from Alcatraz
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
9th June 2008.
While most eyes were on the World Championships in Vancouver this morning, not far South on the East Coast of America Shane Reed was expected to provide the strongest Kiwi challenge at the iconic 'Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon' in San Francisco but it was Graham O'Grady who upstaged Reed with a stunning second place finish behind American Andy Potts.
Hamiltonian O'Grady finished with the quickest run split over the demanding 12.8km run leg but could not quite bridge the gap to Potts, eventually finishing 35 seconds back in second but comfortably ahead of Alexander.
It is a quite stunning performance from an athlete that endured more than his share of injury and illness woes last year and one that clearly announces him as a future contender on the world stage.
Beijing bound Reed finished inside the top ten as he continues his build up towards the Olympics while Ben Pattle was 13th and veteran multi sport competitor Brent Foster came home in 30th.
In the women's race it was an American benefit with Leanda Cave winning from countrywoman Becky Lavelle and Mirinda Carfrae. Cave defended her title from the 2006 winner Lavelle.
New Zealand's Gina Ferguson raced strongly to finish in the top ten while Jo Lawn did not start due to illness.
The race has attracted some of the greatest in the sport throughout its 28 year history and is firmly established as one of the more lucrative events on the circuit outside the official ITU World Cup Series.
Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon, San Francisco USA
Elite Men
1. Andy Potts USA 02:01:57
2. Graham O'grady NZL 02:02:32
3. Craig Alexander AUS 02:02:53
4. David Thompson USA 02:03:04
5. Matt Chrabot USA 02:03:25
6. Paul Matthews USA 02:04:40
7. Mark Fretta USA 02:05:26
8. Joe Umphenour USA 02:05:57
9. Shane Reed NZL 02:07:05
10. Kevin Collington USA 02:07:51
Also
13. Ben Pattle NZL 02:08:30
30. Brent Foster NZL 02:19:52
Elite Women
1. Leanda Cave USA 02:15:37
2. Becky Lavelle USA 02:15:52
3. Mirinda Carfrae USA 02:16:47
4. Rebeccah Wassner USA 02:20:17
5. Samantha Mcglone USA 02:20:58
Also
9. Gina Ferguson NZL 02:23:32
9th June 2008.
While most eyes were on the World Championships in Vancouver this morning, not far South on the East Coast of America Shane Reed was expected to provide the strongest Kiwi challenge at the iconic 'Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon' in San Francisco but it was Graham O'Grady who upstaged Reed with a stunning second place finish behind American Andy Potts.
Hamiltonian O'Grady finished with the quickest run split over the demanding 12.8km run leg but could not quite bridge the gap to Potts, eventually finishing 35 seconds back in second but comfortably ahead of Alexander.
It is a quite stunning performance from an athlete that endured more than his share of injury and illness woes last year and one that clearly announces him as a future contender on the world stage.
Beijing bound Reed finished inside the top ten as he continues his build up towards the Olympics while Ben Pattle was 13th and veteran multi sport competitor Brent Foster came home in 30th.
In the women's race it was an American benefit with Leanda Cave winning from countrywoman Becky Lavelle and Mirinda Carfrae. Cave defended her title from the 2006 winner Lavelle.
New Zealand's Gina Ferguson raced strongly to finish in the top ten while Jo Lawn did not start due to illness.
The race has attracted some of the greatest in the sport throughout its 28 year history and is firmly established as one of the more lucrative events on the circuit outside the official ITU World Cup Series.
Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon, San Francisco USA
Elite Men
1. Andy Potts USA 02:01:57
2. Graham O'grady NZL 02:02:32
3. Craig Alexander AUS 02:02:53
4. David Thompson USA 02:03:04
5. Matt Chrabot USA 02:03:25
6. Paul Matthews USA 02:04:40
7. Mark Fretta USA 02:05:26
8. Joe Umphenour USA 02:05:57
9. Shane Reed NZL 02:07:05
10. Kevin Collington USA 02:07:51
Also
13. Ben Pattle NZL 02:08:30
30. Brent Foster NZL 02:19:52
Elite Women
1. Leanda Cave USA 02:15:37
2. Becky Lavelle USA 02:15:52
3. Mirinda Carfrae USA 02:16:47
4. Rebeccah Wassner USA 02:20:17
5. Samantha Mcglone USA 02:20:58
Also
9. Gina Ferguson NZL 02:23:32
Monday, 9 June 2008
Bevan Docherty runs to silver medal at worlds
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
9th June 2008
The elite men's race at the World Triathlon Championships turned into a test of running ability after the bulk of the field exited the bike leg within seconds of each other with New Zealand number one Bevan Docherty securing the silver medal.
Docherty was to the fore throughout, exiting the water in second place and constantly testing the world class field at the head of the bike while also covering any attempts to break away.
Once on the run it was Docherty and world number one Javier Gomez who quickly asserted their authority, leaving a trail of world class contenders behind them in the cold conditions that have blighted the championships.
Docherty had a good day at the office.
"I felt really strong all day. The conditions didn't bother me, our race was later and the weather came right but being a Taupo boy it helped me out for sure. I knew I was really fit and was strong all day. The swim was great; I controlled pace on bike and knew my running was going well.
Docherty said he keyed off Gomez in the run.
"I stayed with Gomez early in the run and knew if I stayed as long as I could it would put me in a medal position. I waited for the Gomez surge and went with him knowing it would drop a few of the others off the back, it did and I was comfortable in second
"I knew I had to position myself well off the bike but my feet were a bit numb and I struggled to get them in my shoes but I stayed with the plan, sat on Gomez, waited for the move and stayed with him.
"I'm super happy with this result but there is still work to be done and a lot more hard training, I'm sure I can raise it at least another 5% for Beijing."
Those to feel the pinch and fall away included former World Champion Simon Whitfield (Canada), Matt Reed (USA), and another former World Champion Greg Bennett (AUS).
But Gomez proved too strong over the closing stages, winning by 24 seconds from Docherty, who adds silver to his gold medal at the 2004 event.
Docherty's coach Mark Elliott has no doubt there is more in his Kiwi charge
"This race worked out well, exactly what we were looking for today. There is a bit more work to do; this race is really a base race for us in terms of timing towards Beijing. We are looking for something special in another race in a fortnight after two weeks off altitude, a replica of what we will do at the Olympics."
The only other Kiwi in the men's race was Clark Ellice who struggled to stay in touch after exiting the swim and eventually finished 68th.
2008 Triathlon World Championship, Vancouver, Canada 8 June 2008
Elite Men
1. J. GOMEZ (ESP) 1:49:48.36 1:49:48.36
2. B. DOCHERTY (NZL) 1:50:12.64 +24.28
3. R. HUG (SUI) 1:50:17.34 +28.98
4. H. de VILLIERS (RSA) 1:50:18.64 +30.28
5. M. REED (USA) 1:50:27.86 +39.50
6. S. WHITFIELD (CAN) 1:50:27.90 +39.54
7. I. SYSOEV (RUS) 1:50:28.39 +40.03
8. T. MOULAI (FRA) 1:50:31.61 +43.25
9. P. TICHELAAR (CAN) 1:50:32.31 +43.95
10. I. VASILIEV (RUS) 1:50:34.65 +46.29
Also
68. C. ELLICE (NZL) 2:00:11.75 +10:23.39
9th June 2008
The elite men's race at the World Triathlon Championships turned into a test of running ability after the bulk of the field exited the bike leg within seconds of each other with New Zealand number one Bevan Docherty securing the silver medal.
Docherty was to the fore throughout, exiting the water in second place and constantly testing the world class field at the head of the bike while also covering any attempts to break away.
Once on the run it was Docherty and world number one Javier Gomez who quickly asserted their authority, leaving a trail of world class contenders behind them in the cold conditions that have blighted the championships.
Docherty had a good day at the office.
"I felt really strong all day. The conditions didn't bother me, our race was later and the weather came right but being a Taupo boy it helped me out for sure. I knew I was really fit and was strong all day. The swim was great; I controlled pace on bike and knew my running was going well.
Docherty said he keyed off Gomez in the run.
"I stayed with Gomez early in the run and knew if I stayed as long as I could it would put me in a medal position. I waited for the Gomez surge and went with him knowing it would drop a few of the others off the back, it did and I was comfortable in second
"I knew I had to position myself well off the bike but my feet were a bit numb and I struggled to get them in my shoes but I stayed with the plan, sat on Gomez, waited for the move and stayed with him.
"I'm super happy with this result but there is still work to be done and a lot more hard training, I'm sure I can raise it at least another 5% for Beijing."
Those to feel the pinch and fall away included former World Champion Simon Whitfield (Canada), Matt Reed (USA), and another former World Champion Greg Bennett (AUS).
But Gomez proved too strong over the closing stages, winning by 24 seconds from Docherty, who adds silver to his gold medal at the 2004 event.
Docherty's coach Mark Elliott has no doubt there is more in his Kiwi charge
"This race worked out well, exactly what we were looking for today. There is a bit more work to do; this race is really a base race for us in terms of timing towards Beijing. We are looking for something special in another race in a fortnight after two weeks off altitude, a replica of what we will do at the Olympics."
The only other Kiwi in the men's race was Clark Ellice who struggled to stay in touch after exiting the swim and eventually finished 68th.
2008 Triathlon World Championship, Vancouver, Canada 8 June 2008
Elite Men
1. J. GOMEZ (ESP) 1:49:48.36 1:49:48.36
2. B. DOCHERTY (NZL) 1:50:12.64 +24.28
3. R. HUG (SUI) 1:50:17.34 +28.98
4. H. de VILLIERS (RSA) 1:50:18.64 +30.28
5. M. REED (USA) 1:50:27.86 +39.50
6. S. WHITFIELD (CAN) 1:50:27.90 +39.54
7. I. SYSOEV (RUS) 1:50:28.39 +40.03
8. T. MOULAI (FRA) 1:50:31.61 +43.25
9. P. TICHELAAR (CAN) 1:50:32.31 +43.95
10. I. VASILIEV (RUS) 1:50:34.65 +46.29
Also
68. C. ELLICE (NZL) 2:00:11.75 +10:23.39
Sam Warriner takes world champs bronze
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
9th June 2008.
Kiwi triathlete Sam Warriner posted one of the fastest run splits in the field in claiming a superb bronze medal at the World Triathlon Championships in Vancouver this morning.
A stunning breakaway ride from Sara Haskins (USA) and Helen Tucker (GBR) looked to have put paid to any Kiwi chances at a cold and wet Vancouver this morning but Warriner drew on all her powers of determination to run into a podium place, her first at a World Championships.
The Beijing bound Kiwi is delighted at her form.
"I can't believe my run, especially the finish. The Aussies sat on me the whole way and they and I knew they could both sprint. I tried to increase the pace on the last lap to make them work for it but both hung around. When Erin went I went with her and managed to come through on the inside to get third.
This is such a big boost to me to claim a medal in these circumstances, I can't explain it. When Erin went I just threw everything I had into the sprint and never gave up, you can never give up. I am stoked.
"The swim and bike were very cold but we knew this and I took precautions to stay as warm as I could. The wind chill on the bike was really cold. My swim was good and transition got me in the main pack but it was too big to work and close the gap on the leaders.”
Warriner, Debbie Tanner and Andrea Hewitt found themselves 2 minutes and 2 seconds behind off the bike, along with the rest of the field after the breakaway ride from the American and Englishwoman distanced the field, including world number one Vanessa Fernandes.
Wellington's Evelyn Williamson was withdrawn from the race when lapped midway through the bike leg in what is likely to be a disappointing final appearance at a World Championships for the veteran performer.
Conditions certainly played a part with the cold and wet proving too much for dominant world number one Fernandes. Despite exiting the bike in the main chase pack, the normally fleet footed Portuguese athlete made no impact on the run.
Tanner ran a strong second half of the ten kilometres to finish inside the top ten, one place ahead of the all conquering Fernandes while Hewitt faded on the run to finish in 25th place, just over four minutes down on Tucker who out sprinted Haskins for gold.
2008 World Triathlon Championships, Vancouver, Canada 8 June 2008
Elite Women
1. H. TUCKER (GBR) 2:01:37.37 2:01:37.37
2. S. HASKINS (USA) 2:01:41.14 +3.77
3. S. WARRINER (NZL) 2:02:32.85 +55.48
4. E. DENSHAM (AUS) 2:02:32.96 +55.59
5. E. MOFFATT (AUS) 2:02:34.75 +57.38
6. F. ABRAM (AUS) 2:03:35.71 +1:58.34
7. S. GROFF (USA) 2:04:08.99 +2:31.62
8. K. ALLEN (AUT) 2:04:14.58 +2:37.21
9. D. TANNER (NZL) 2:04:24.65 +2:47.28
10. V. FERNANDES (POR) 2:04:34.89 +2:57.52
Also
25. A. HEWITT (NZL) 2:05:48.18 +4:10.81
9th June 2008.
Kiwi triathlete Sam Warriner posted one of the fastest run splits in the field in claiming a superb bronze medal at the World Triathlon Championships in Vancouver this morning.
A stunning breakaway ride from Sara Haskins (USA) and Helen Tucker (GBR) looked to have put paid to any Kiwi chances at a cold and wet Vancouver this morning but Warriner drew on all her powers of determination to run into a podium place, her first at a World Championships.
The Beijing bound Kiwi is delighted at her form.
"I can't believe my run, especially the finish. The Aussies sat on me the whole way and they and I knew they could both sprint. I tried to increase the pace on the last lap to make them work for it but both hung around. When Erin went I went with her and managed to come through on the inside to get third.
This is such a big boost to me to claim a medal in these circumstances, I can't explain it. When Erin went I just threw everything I had into the sprint and never gave up, you can never give up. I am stoked.
"The swim and bike were very cold but we knew this and I took precautions to stay as warm as I could. The wind chill on the bike was really cold. My swim was good and transition got me in the main pack but it was too big to work and close the gap on the leaders.”
Warriner, Debbie Tanner and Andrea Hewitt found themselves 2 minutes and 2 seconds behind off the bike, along with the rest of the field after the breakaway ride from the American and Englishwoman distanced the field, including world number one Vanessa Fernandes.
Wellington's Evelyn Williamson was withdrawn from the race when lapped midway through the bike leg in what is likely to be a disappointing final appearance at a World Championships for the veteran performer.
Conditions certainly played a part with the cold and wet proving too much for dominant world number one Fernandes. Despite exiting the bike in the main chase pack, the normally fleet footed Portuguese athlete made no impact on the run.
Tanner ran a strong second half of the ten kilometres to finish inside the top ten, one place ahead of the all conquering Fernandes while Hewitt faded on the run to finish in 25th place, just over four minutes down on Tucker who out sprinted Haskins for gold.
2008 World Triathlon Championships, Vancouver, Canada 8 June 2008
Elite Women
1. H. TUCKER (GBR) 2:01:37.37 2:01:37.37
2. S. HASKINS (USA) 2:01:41.14 +3.77
3. S. WARRINER (NZL) 2:02:32.85 +55.48
4. E. DENSHAM (AUS) 2:02:32.96 +55.59
5. E. MOFFATT (AUS) 2:02:34.75 +57.38
6. F. ABRAM (AUS) 2:03:35.71 +1:58.34
7. S. GROFF (USA) 2:04:08.99 +2:31.62
8. K. ALLEN (AUT) 2:04:14.58 +2:37.21
9. D. TANNER (NZL) 2:04:24.65 +2:47.28
10. V. FERNANDES (POR) 2:04:34.89 +2:57.52
Also
25. A. HEWITT (NZL) 2:05:48.18 +4:10.81
Martin van Barneveld takes U23 bronze
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
9th June 2008.
New Zealand has started the final day of the World Triathlon Championships with a bronze medal for Martin van Barneveld in the elite U23 men's race.
Athletes have once again had to overcome bitterly cold and wet conditions with many withdrawals from crashes and the cold conditions decimating the fields.
The Kiwi women suffered in the U23 race with Julia Grant crashing heavily on a tight corner on lap two of the bike while both Jacqui Seebold and Anna Elvery were lapped out of the race late in the bike, both suffering from the cold.
The men though raced superbly with van Barneveld leading the way in third, followed by Tony Dodds in tenth, Ryan Sissons in 13th and Ben Visser in 30th.
Van Barneveld was delighted with his race.
"I've never had a good world champs and this was my last year as an U23. I've been working hard on my swimming and got off to good start on left hand side of the course with some good athletes, coming out just behind front bunch but we caught them on the first hill on the bike.
The course was cold with lots of water on road, and flicking up in our faces if you were riding behind someone. It was real survival mode to conserve energy and stay warm, I had an advantage in that I am slightly bigger so could keep warm.
"I came off at front of the pack, felt amazing, having just come down from attitude. I so wanted to have a good race, this is my last as U23. I needed to confirm that I can have a career in this sport. Up until now best world champs finish was 20th, going into elite men I needed the confidence of a good race, I am so happy and will build on this for the European season."
Tri NZ High Performance Director Stephen Farrell said they all raced superbly.
"Martin had a blinder this morning, he raced really well. He stayed with the main bunch through the bike and ran strongly while others faded to finished third, just missing second in a sprint finish.
"Tony has also raced really well and remember he still has a couple of years in this age group while Ryan Sissons was experiencing this level of racing for the first time. He cramped up and lost plenty of places midway through the run but came back superbly to finish 13th.
"Even young Ben Visser will have learned so much from today's efforts, he too will have better days at World Championships in the future, I have no doubt about that."
Racing continues throughout the morning with the elite women on course now and the elite men set to get underway later this morning New Zealand time.
Conditions were cold, wet and difficult for the athletes.
Results Under23 World Championships, Vancouver, Canada 8 July 2008
Elite U23 Men
1. A. Brownlee (GBR) 1:54:37.61 1:54:37.61
2. G. Buchholz (GER) 1:54:56.61 +19.00
3. Martin Van Barneveld (NZL) 1:54:59.06 +21.45
4. T. Leckie (GBR) 1:55:12.58 +34.97
5. A. Brukhankov (RUS) 1:55:36.94 +59.33
6. L. Salvisberg (SUI) 1:55:46.29 +1:08.68
7. N. Frommhold (GER) 1:55:56.77 +1:19.16
8. A. Casadei (ITA) 1:55:59.93 +1:22.32
9. J. Maeder (AUS) 1:56:09.50 +1:31.89
10. Tony Dodds (NZL) 1:56:10.63 +1:33.02
Plus NZers
13. Ryan Sissons (NZL) 1:57:09.55 +2:31.94
30. Ben Visser (NZL) 1:59:40.30 +5:02.69
Elite U23 Women
1. Daniela Ryf (SUI) 2:09:30.96 0.00
2. Jasmine Oeinck (USA) 2:10:02.26 +31.30
3. Mari Rabie (SAF) 2:11:35.38 +2:04.42
4. Olesya Prystayko (UKR) 2:12:51.56 +3:20.60
5. Barbara Riveros Diaz (CHI) 2:13:02.93 +3:31.97
Plus NZers
Julia Grant DNF
Jacqui Seebold DSQ
Anna Elvery DSQ
9th June 2008.
New Zealand has started the final day of the World Triathlon Championships with a bronze medal for Martin van Barneveld in the elite U23 men's race.
Athletes have once again had to overcome bitterly cold and wet conditions with many withdrawals from crashes and the cold conditions decimating the fields.
The Kiwi women suffered in the U23 race with Julia Grant crashing heavily on a tight corner on lap two of the bike while both Jacqui Seebold and Anna Elvery were lapped out of the race late in the bike, both suffering from the cold.
The men though raced superbly with van Barneveld leading the way in third, followed by Tony Dodds in tenth, Ryan Sissons in 13th and Ben Visser in 30th.
Van Barneveld was delighted with his race.
"I've never had a good world champs and this was my last year as an U23. I've been working hard on my swimming and got off to good start on left hand side of the course with some good athletes, coming out just behind front bunch but we caught them on the first hill on the bike.
The course was cold with lots of water on road, and flicking up in our faces if you were riding behind someone. It was real survival mode to conserve energy and stay warm, I had an advantage in that I am slightly bigger so could keep warm.
"I came off at front of the pack, felt amazing, having just come down from attitude. I so wanted to have a good race, this is my last as U23. I needed to confirm that I can have a career in this sport. Up until now best world champs finish was 20th, going into elite men I needed the confidence of a good race, I am so happy and will build on this for the European season."
Tri NZ High Performance Director Stephen Farrell said they all raced superbly.
"Martin had a blinder this morning, he raced really well. He stayed with the main bunch through the bike and ran strongly while others faded to finished third, just missing second in a sprint finish.
"Tony has also raced really well and remember he still has a couple of years in this age group while Ryan Sissons was experiencing this level of racing for the first time. He cramped up and lost plenty of places midway through the run but came back superbly to finish 13th.
"Even young Ben Visser will have learned so much from today's efforts, he too will have better days at World Championships in the future, I have no doubt about that."
Racing continues throughout the morning with the elite women on course now and the elite men set to get underway later this morning New Zealand time.
Conditions were cold, wet and difficult for the athletes.
Results Under23 World Championships, Vancouver, Canada 8 July 2008
Elite U23 Men
1. A. Brownlee (GBR) 1:54:37.61 1:54:37.61
2. G. Buchholz (GER) 1:54:56.61 +19.00
3. Martin Van Barneveld (NZL) 1:54:59.06 +21.45
4. T. Leckie (GBR) 1:55:12.58 +34.97
5. A. Brukhankov (RUS) 1:55:36.94 +59.33
6. L. Salvisberg (SUI) 1:55:46.29 +1:08.68
7. N. Frommhold (GER) 1:55:56.77 +1:19.16
8. A. Casadei (ITA) 1:55:59.93 +1:22.32
9. J. Maeder (AUS) 1:56:09.50 +1:31.89
10. Tony Dodds (NZL) 1:56:10.63 +1:33.02
Plus NZers
13. Ryan Sissons (NZL) 1:57:09.55 +2:31.94
30. Ben Visser (NZL) 1:59:40.30 +5:02.69
Elite U23 Women
1. Daniela Ryf (SUI) 2:09:30.96 0.00
2. Jasmine Oeinck (USA) 2:10:02.26 +31.30
3. Mari Rabie (SAF) 2:11:35.38 +2:04.42
4. Olesya Prystayko (UKR) 2:12:51.56 +3:20.60
5. Barbara Riveros Diaz (CHI) 2:13:02.93 +3:31.97
Plus NZers
Julia Grant DNF
Jacqui Seebold DSQ
Anna Elvery DSQ
Two more Kiwi age group golds as weather ruins racing
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
8th June 2008.
The Triathlon World Championships in Vancouver were thrown into turmoil this morning with high winds and cold temperatures forcing organizers to cancel the swim leg for most of the age group races, turning the event into a duathlon.
The fortunate ones were the women aged 18 to 49 who got to complete a full triathlon with the swim included. But at around the time the 30 to 34 women's wave was starting the weather changed. High winds came up, the sea got choppy and officials were struggling to keep athletes on course.
Racing continued for about another half an hour with the 45 to 49 years women being the last group to swim before officials halted proceedings. Athletes were commenting on how tough it was to stay on course and above water.
Officials delayed racing for about an hour, hoping for an improvement. But the weather did not play its part. Lifeguards couldn't stay out, boats were swamped and no guards on the water meant no swimming.
At this point officials came in to the athlete lounge area and advised of change to duathlon for everyone from 50 years women up and all men races. The duathlon involved a 3km run instead of the swim, then the normal bike and run course as planned.
New Zealand team manager Claire Attwood said it was a tough day and a long way to come for a duathlon.
"It was not quite as cold as yesterday and eventually sun came out, but high winds caused havoc and the officials really had no choice. Most of our team are seeing the funny side of a pretty tough situation. Some of them have never done a duathlon in their lives and they train and save to come all the way to Vancouver to race their first one!
"Once again though the athletes have done us proud in the way they have handled conditions and the change to the racing programme. We have enjoyed some great results in very tough conditions and all our athletes have represented Tri NZ and the country with distinction."
Highlights on a tough day included gold and silver for Lynne Pattle and Julie Wagner in the women's 55 to 59 race, gold for Peter Wood in the 65 to 69 men and podium finishes for John Hellemens 55 to 59 men, Alec Hill 75 to 79 men, Michael Gowing 50 to 54 men.
World Triathlon Championships, Vancouver. Age Group Olympic Distance June 2008
NZ Results (provisional results at this stage)
*denotes duathlon
18 – 19 Women
2 207 Tracey STEENS New Zealand 2:07:33.86 +3:43.44
9 208 Anna FUHRER 2:25:57.76 +22:07.34
20 to24 Women
6 277 Hayley ANDERSON 2:08:07.54 +11:21.46
14 276 Nicola GRAY 2:11:02.94 +14:16.86
26 237 Laura SMIT 2:16:17.43 +19:31.35
50 235 Alexandria GIBSON 2:24:51.68 +28:05.60
25 to 29 Women
4 338 Naomi FERGUSSON 2:04:13.50 +3:58.90
35 352 Kerri NEYLON 2:14:02.67 +13:48.07
38 362 Erin O'HARA 2:14:17.38 +14:02.78
40 370 Fiona EAGLES 2:14:36.59 +14:21.99
53 368 Annabel RAMSAY 2:16:36.34 +16:21.74
65 325 Nicola DE LAUTOUR 2:22:17.99 +22:03.39
70 346 Phillippa JENSEN 2:23:37.69 +23:23.09
30 to 34 Women
4 450 Janine SAX 2:06:32.07 +8:40.41
11 484 Jacinda PAPPS 2:09:25.10 +11:33.44
17 432 Kelley TOY 2:11:46.72 +13:55.06
21 464 Heather PEAL 2:13:03.39 +15: 11.73
42 463 Laurance GAY 2:20:05.28 +22:13.62
76 446 Lidia BELLES-ESCRIG 2:34:55.92 +37:04.26
*30 to 34 Men
24 1858 Donald PATTERSON 1:45:01.0 +13:13.78
42 1848 Philip KING 1:48:54.67 +17:07.15
35 to 39 Women
16 542 Jane FOX 2:15:19.71 +19:03.76
33 568 Sharon SPROULE 2:21:25.65 +25:09.70
36 551 Philippa PARKIN 2:22:07.05 +25:51.10
47 576 Tamsin GALLIE 2:26:09.34 +29:53.39
61 563 Kathrine HILTON 2:31:29.76 +35:13.81
*35 to 39 Men
16 1971 Greg O'CONNOR 1:45:07.21 +7:06.38
18 1914 Andrew ABAKHAN 1:45:25.90 +7:25.07
32 1953 Matthew BERG 1:47:54.13 +9:53.30
74 1955 Warren ANDERSON 1:58:22.53 +20:21.70
82 1981 Craig MOORE 2:00:26.44 +22:25.61
40 to 44 Women
36 634 Karen BLACKWOOD 2:27:20.31 +19:23.27
48 652 Jane LOUGHNAN 2:32:26.68 +24:29.64
50 607 Jane HEATHER-SCLATER 2:34:12.48 +26:15.44
60 645 Lisa KABOT 2:43:19.37 +35:22.33
62 640 Amy WHITE 2:46:05.41 +38:08.37
*40 to 44 Men
31 2020 Steve DEAN 1:51:23.29 +18:19.08
41 2003 Mike WREN 1:53:02.04 +19:57.83
64 2070 James BELL 1:57:32.16 +24:27.95
65 2101 Stephen COLPITTS 1:57:34.39 +24:30.18
66 656 Robert JORDAN 1:58:24.25 +25:20.04
67 2048 Roger SLATER 1:59:16.31 +26:12.10
85 2081 Nicholas VAUGHAN 2:09:22.44 +36:18.23
45 to 49 Women
13 771 Josie SINCLAIR 2:18:07.24 +14:27.87
24 734 Libby HENRIKSEN 2:23:37.80 +19:58.43
35 765 Ann ROBOTTOM 2:29:57.89 +26:18.52
46 766 Christine FRASER 2:37:55.43 +34:16.06
*45 to 49 Men
32 2225 Stephen MEALINGS 1:52:18.23 +10:03.76
33 2246 Neil SHEERIN 1:52:20.62 +10:06.15
46 2217 Jez SMEDLEY Great Britain 1:55:44.94 +13:30.47
47 2272 James TURNER 1:56:01.45 +13:46.98
51 2237 Christopher TODD 1:56:39.33 +14:24.86
57 2039 Tim JARDINE 1:58:07.66 +15:53.19
64 2264 Glen TURNER 2:00:14.35 +17:59.88
*50 to 54 Men
3 1102 Michael GOWING 1:49:03.87 +3:37.30
7 1125 Niels MADSEN 1:49:54.67 +4:28.10
37 839 Pat O'CONNELL 2:00:20.25 +14:53.68
42 1116 William (Bill) MANNING 2:01:09.14 +15:42.57
50 1133 Kevin RAVEN 2:03:24.19 +17:57.62
65 1137 Kevin LOFT 2:11:37.14 +26:10.57
*55 to 59 Women
1 938 Lynne PATTLE 2:08:08.97 0.00
2 926 Julie WAGNER 2:09:37.46 +1:28.49
*55 to 59 Men
2 1243 John HELLEMANS 1:50:21.58 +2:17.53
12 1222 Shorty CLARK 1:59:43.29 +11:39.24
46 1207 Alan PATTLE 2:13:24.01 +25:19.96
*60 to 64 Women
11 953 Tiare LUND 2:25:12.77 +12:25.57
28 978 Ann BOULD 2:44:49.94 +32:02.74
*60 to 64 Men
14 1330 Peter GIBBS 2:05:45.69 +7:54.99
15 1300 Barry PAYNE 2:06:25.03 +8:34.33
20 1275 Donald ALLEN 2:09:53.09 +12:02.39
25 1331 John SKINNON 2:10:55.14 +13:04.44
46 1296 John EAGLES 2:24:57.14 +27:06.44
49 1313 Malcolm SMART 2:26:47.17 +28:56.47
*65 to 69 Men
1 1424 Peter WOOD 2:01:31.23 0.00
24 1438 Anthony (Tony) FANTHAM 2:31:29.18 +29:57.95
*70 to 74 Men
7 1445 Neil FLEMING 2:22:59.75 +14:39.12
*75 to 79 Men
3 1474 Alec HILL 2:40:00.37 +11:42.58
8th June 2008.
The Triathlon World Championships in Vancouver were thrown into turmoil this morning with high winds and cold temperatures forcing organizers to cancel the swim leg for most of the age group races, turning the event into a duathlon.
The fortunate ones were the women aged 18 to 49 who got to complete a full triathlon with the swim included. But at around the time the 30 to 34 women's wave was starting the weather changed. High winds came up, the sea got choppy and officials were struggling to keep athletes on course.
Racing continued for about another half an hour with the 45 to 49 years women being the last group to swim before officials halted proceedings. Athletes were commenting on how tough it was to stay on course and above water.
Officials delayed racing for about an hour, hoping for an improvement. But the weather did not play its part. Lifeguards couldn't stay out, boats were swamped and no guards on the water meant no swimming.
At this point officials came in to the athlete lounge area and advised of change to duathlon for everyone from 50 years women up and all men races. The duathlon involved a 3km run instead of the swim, then the normal bike and run course as planned.
New Zealand team manager Claire Attwood said it was a tough day and a long way to come for a duathlon.
"It was not quite as cold as yesterday and eventually sun came out, but high winds caused havoc and the officials really had no choice. Most of our team are seeing the funny side of a pretty tough situation. Some of them have never done a duathlon in their lives and they train and save to come all the way to Vancouver to race their first one!
"Once again though the athletes have done us proud in the way they have handled conditions and the change to the racing programme. We have enjoyed some great results in very tough conditions and all our athletes have represented Tri NZ and the country with distinction."
Highlights on a tough day included gold and silver for Lynne Pattle and Julie Wagner in the women's 55 to 59 race, gold for Peter Wood in the 65 to 69 men and podium finishes for John Hellemens 55 to 59 men, Alec Hill 75 to 79 men, Michael Gowing 50 to 54 men.
World Triathlon Championships, Vancouver. Age Group Olympic Distance June 2008
NZ Results (provisional results at this stage)
*denotes duathlon
18 – 19 Women
2 207 Tracey STEENS New Zealand 2:07:33.86 +3:43.44
9 208 Anna FUHRER 2:25:57.76 +22:07.34
20 to24 Women
6 277 Hayley ANDERSON 2:08:07.54 +11:21.46
14 276 Nicola GRAY 2:11:02.94 +14:16.86
26 237 Laura SMIT 2:16:17.43 +19:31.35
50 235 Alexandria GIBSON 2:24:51.68 +28:05.60
25 to 29 Women
4 338 Naomi FERGUSSON 2:04:13.50 +3:58.90
35 352 Kerri NEYLON 2:14:02.67 +13:48.07
38 362 Erin O'HARA 2:14:17.38 +14:02.78
40 370 Fiona EAGLES 2:14:36.59 +14:21.99
53 368 Annabel RAMSAY 2:16:36.34 +16:21.74
65 325 Nicola DE LAUTOUR 2:22:17.99 +22:03.39
70 346 Phillippa JENSEN 2:23:37.69 +23:23.09
30 to 34 Women
4 450 Janine SAX 2:06:32.07 +8:40.41
11 484 Jacinda PAPPS 2:09:25.10 +11:33.44
17 432 Kelley TOY 2:11:46.72 +13:55.06
21 464 Heather PEAL 2:13:03.39 +15: 11.73
42 463 Laurance GAY 2:20:05.28 +22:13.62
76 446 Lidia BELLES-ESCRIG 2:34:55.92 +37:04.26
*30 to 34 Men
24 1858 Donald PATTERSON 1:45:01.0 +13:13.78
42 1848 Philip KING 1:48:54.67 +17:07.15
35 to 39 Women
16 542 Jane FOX 2:15:19.71 +19:03.76
33 568 Sharon SPROULE 2:21:25.65 +25:09.70
36 551 Philippa PARKIN 2:22:07.05 +25:51.10
47 576 Tamsin GALLIE 2:26:09.34 +29:53.39
61 563 Kathrine HILTON 2:31:29.76 +35:13.81
*35 to 39 Men
16 1971 Greg O'CONNOR 1:45:07.21 +7:06.38
18 1914 Andrew ABAKHAN 1:45:25.90 +7:25.07
32 1953 Matthew BERG 1:47:54.13 +9:53.30
74 1955 Warren ANDERSON 1:58:22.53 +20:21.70
82 1981 Craig MOORE 2:00:26.44 +22:25.61
40 to 44 Women
36 634 Karen BLACKWOOD 2:27:20.31 +19:23.27
48 652 Jane LOUGHNAN 2:32:26.68 +24:29.64
50 607 Jane HEATHER-SCLATER 2:34:12.48 +26:15.44
60 645 Lisa KABOT 2:43:19.37 +35:22.33
62 640 Amy WHITE 2:46:05.41 +38:08.37
*40 to 44 Men
31 2020 Steve DEAN 1:51:23.29 +18:19.08
41 2003 Mike WREN 1:53:02.04 +19:57.83
64 2070 James BELL 1:57:32.16 +24:27.95
65 2101 Stephen COLPITTS 1:57:34.39 +24:30.18
66 656 Robert JORDAN 1:58:24.25 +25:20.04
67 2048 Roger SLATER 1:59:16.31 +26:12.10
85 2081 Nicholas VAUGHAN 2:09:22.44 +36:18.23
45 to 49 Women
13 771 Josie SINCLAIR 2:18:07.24 +14:27.87
24 734 Libby HENRIKSEN 2:23:37.80 +19:58.43
35 765 Ann ROBOTTOM 2:29:57.89 +26:18.52
46 766 Christine FRASER 2:37:55.43 +34:16.06
*45 to 49 Men
32 2225 Stephen MEALINGS 1:52:18.23 +10:03.76
33 2246 Neil SHEERIN 1:52:20.62 +10:06.15
46 2217 Jez SMEDLEY Great Britain 1:55:44.94 +13:30.47
47 2272 James TURNER 1:56:01.45 +13:46.98
51 2237 Christopher TODD 1:56:39.33 +14:24.86
57 2039 Tim JARDINE 1:58:07.66 +15:53.19
64 2264 Glen TURNER 2:00:14.35 +17:59.88
*50 to 54 Men
3 1102 Michael GOWING 1:49:03.87 +3:37.30
7 1125 Niels MADSEN 1:49:54.67 +4:28.10
37 839 Pat O'CONNELL 2:00:20.25 +14:53.68
42 1116 William (Bill) MANNING 2:01:09.14 +15:42.57
50 1133 Kevin RAVEN 2:03:24.19 +17:57.62
65 1137 Kevin LOFT 2:11:37.14 +26:10.57
*55 to 59 Women
1 938 Lynne PATTLE 2:08:08.97 0.00
2 926 Julie WAGNER 2:09:37.46 +1:28.49
*55 to 59 Men
2 1243 John HELLEMANS 1:50:21.58 +2:17.53
12 1222 Shorty CLARK 1:59:43.29 +11:39.24
46 1207 Alan PATTLE 2:13:24.01 +25:19.96
*60 to 64 Women
11 953 Tiare LUND 2:25:12.77 +12:25.57
28 978 Ann BOULD 2:44:49.94 +32:02.74
*60 to 64 Men
14 1330 Peter GIBBS 2:05:45.69 +7:54.99
15 1300 Barry PAYNE 2:06:25.03 +8:34.33
20 1275 Donald ALLEN 2:09:53.09 +12:02.39
25 1331 John SKINNON 2:10:55.14 +13:04.44
46 1296 John EAGLES 2:24:57.14 +27:06.44
49 1313 Malcolm SMART 2:26:47.17 +28:56.47
*65 to 69 Men
1 1424 Peter WOOD 2:01:31.23 0.00
24 1438 Anthony (Tony) FANTHAM 2:31:29.18 +29:57.95
*70 to 74 Men
7 1445 Neil FLEMING 2:22:59.75 +14:39.12
*75 to 79 Men
3 1474 Alec HILL 2:40:00.37 +11:42.58
World titles for Sarah Jack and Anthony Sepie in sprint champs
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
7th June 2008.
New Zealand picked up two World Championship titles at the Sprint Distance age group Triathlon World Championship in Vancouver today.
Capping a fine day in which all New Zealand competitors finished their events in tough conditions, there were a further three podium finishes and seven top ten, with all Kiwis inside the top 25 in their age group races.
New Zealand team manager Claire Attwood was bursting with pride when describing the efforts of the entire team.
"Everyone deserves a medal here today; conditions were so tough with temperatures not really getting above single figures and the water temperature even colder. Despite that we had a 100% finish record and everyone gave it their absolute all, representing themselves and their country with real class."
Sarah Jack capped her incredible comeback to the sport with victory in the women's 20 to 24 age group while veteran Anthony Sepie took out the men's 75 to 79 age group.
Jack's story is a remarkable one given the young Aucklander underwent major surgery in 2004 to correct adolescent idiopathic scoliosis – lateral curvature of the spine. During the surgery Jack had two titanium rods inserted either side and fused to her spine.
The third year med student is coached by George Hilgenhoult in Auckland, he is immensely proud of his charge but not surprised at her success.
"Five years ago Sarah was training as a junior with some national and elite squads but frankly I thought she was out of her league. But Sarah is so tenacious; she kept plugging on and moved on to the U16 junior squad and attended several New Zealand camps.
"Despite her setbacks or maybe because of them, Sarah's mental attitude is incredible; I've not seen anyone like her. She is unassuming, committed and enthusiastic about the sport and continues to improve."
Christchurch's Anthony Sepie is legendary around Triathlon and Multisport circles, constantly overcoming personal setbacks and health issues that would 'retire' most normal people. But the popular Sepie keeps bouncing back more determined than ever and has a World Championship to his name. Sepie simply doesn't know when to quit. A familiar sight at triathlon and multisport events around the country and in last year's Contact My Sport Series races, Sepie's victory comes despite battling to overcome both leukemia and prostate cancer. The story of his triumph against adversity doesn't end there though, Sepie can only swim in the ocean, as his skin is too sensitive to handle the chlorine used in indoor pools, which means he's even out training in the ocean in the middle of winter.
Add to that the bouts of chemotherapy he has for the leukemia every two to three years and the injections required for his prostate cancer (which impede his performances by about 20%), and you wouldn't blame Sepie if he had packed the sport in years ago.
The men's 16 to 19 age category was a fierce battle throughout, with Alexander Smith (Auckland) and Daniel Hine (New Plymouth) finishing second and third while Cameron Todd was close behind in fifth.
Ian Clark (Hawkes Bay) was second in the men's 20 to 24, picking up New Zealand's other podium finish in conditions that had spectators grabbing their winter jackets and athletes warding off hypothermia!
Triathlon NZ CEO Dave Beeche is proud of Jack, Sepie and all those who raced this morning wearing the silver fern.
"Our sport is so much more than success at the elite level and on the world stage. All who competed this morning in Vancouver have done themselves, their families and their sport of Triathlon proud. The stories of Sarah Jack and Anthony Sepie should serve as inspiration to all New Zealanders to overcome any hurdles and set their goals high in life. Tri NZ is extremely proud of Sarah, Anthony and all who raced this morning, we look forward to further success in the standard distance events and of course in the elite races on Monday morning our time."
2008 World Sprint Distance Age Group Championships, Vancouver Canada
NZ Results
16 to 19 women
9 2308 Hayleigh NITERL 1:30:21.33 +7:15.69
10 2305 Jessica ROETS 1:31:56.88 +8:51.24
16 to19 men
2 2926 Alexander SMITH 1:10:09.46 +20.69
3 2905 Daniel HINE 1:10:50.33 +1:01.56
5 2904 Cameron TODD 1:12:16.45 +2:27.68
20 to 24 women
1 2321 Sarah JACK 1:24:28.87 0.00
20 to 24 men
2 2930 Ian CLARK 1:11:28.06 +1:26.35
4 2929 Clay GULLIVER 1:13:52.39 +3:50.68
25 to 29 Men
6 3004 Te Kawa ROBB 1:15:18.03 +5:29.10
30 to 34 Women
4 2402 Mel CUTLER 1:29:40.40 +2:37.92
30 to 34 Men
12 3055 Benjamin EITELBERG 1:19:30.90 +9:03.53
35 to 39 Men
11 3112 Warren SUTHERLAND 1:18:43.40 +5:43.43
40 to 44 Men
13 3205 David BROWN 1:22:07.88 +7:56.56
24 3207 Darin ROBINSON 1:25:51.90 +11:40.58
50 to 54 Women
5 2602 Glynn PRITCHETT 1:37:53.78 +3:50.10
11 2607 Sue COOMBES 1:45:13.32 +11:09.64
65 to 69 Men
5 2835 John GORDON 1:56:12.29 +13:33.82
75 to 79 Men
1 2846 Anthony SEPIE 2:19:07.28 0.00
7th June 2008.
New Zealand picked up two World Championship titles at the Sprint Distance age group Triathlon World Championship in Vancouver today.
Capping a fine day in which all New Zealand competitors finished their events in tough conditions, there were a further three podium finishes and seven top ten, with all Kiwis inside the top 25 in their age group races.
New Zealand team manager Claire Attwood was bursting with pride when describing the efforts of the entire team.
"Everyone deserves a medal here today; conditions were so tough with temperatures not really getting above single figures and the water temperature even colder. Despite that we had a 100% finish record and everyone gave it their absolute all, representing themselves and their country with real class."
Sarah Jack capped her incredible comeback to the sport with victory in the women's 20 to 24 age group while veteran Anthony Sepie took out the men's 75 to 79 age group.
Jack's story is a remarkable one given the young Aucklander underwent major surgery in 2004 to correct adolescent idiopathic scoliosis – lateral curvature of the spine. During the surgery Jack had two titanium rods inserted either side and fused to her spine.
The third year med student is coached by George Hilgenhoult in Auckland, he is immensely proud of his charge but not surprised at her success.
"Five years ago Sarah was training as a junior with some national and elite squads but frankly I thought she was out of her league. But Sarah is so tenacious; she kept plugging on and moved on to the U16 junior squad and attended several New Zealand camps.
"Despite her setbacks or maybe because of them, Sarah's mental attitude is incredible; I've not seen anyone like her. She is unassuming, committed and enthusiastic about the sport and continues to improve."
Christchurch's Anthony Sepie is legendary around Triathlon and Multisport circles, constantly overcoming personal setbacks and health issues that would 'retire' most normal people. But the popular Sepie keeps bouncing back more determined than ever and has a World Championship to his name. Sepie simply doesn't know when to quit. A familiar sight at triathlon and multisport events around the country and in last year's Contact My Sport Series races, Sepie's victory comes despite battling to overcome both leukemia and prostate cancer. The story of his triumph against adversity doesn't end there though, Sepie can only swim in the ocean, as his skin is too sensitive to handle the chlorine used in indoor pools, which means he's even out training in the ocean in the middle of winter.
Add to that the bouts of chemotherapy he has for the leukemia every two to three years and the injections required for his prostate cancer (which impede his performances by about 20%), and you wouldn't blame Sepie if he had packed the sport in years ago.
The men's 16 to 19 age category was a fierce battle throughout, with Alexander Smith (Auckland) and Daniel Hine (New Plymouth) finishing second and third while Cameron Todd was close behind in fifth.
Ian Clark (Hawkes Bay) was second in the men's 20 to 24, picking up New Zealand's other podium finish in conditions that had spectators grabbing their winter jackets and athletes warding off hypothermia!
Triathlon NZ CEO Dave Beeche is proud of Jack, Sepie and all those who raced this morning wearing the silver fern.
"Our sport is so much more than success at the elite level and on the world stage. All who competed this morning in Vancouver have done themselves, their families and their sport of Triathlon proud. The stories of Sarah Jack and Anthony Sepie should serve as inspiration to all New Zealanders to overcome any hurdles and set their goals high in life. Tri NZ is extremely proud of Sarah, Anthony and all who raced this morning, we look forward to further success in the standard distance events and of course in the elite races on Monday morning our time."
2008 World Sprint Distance Age Group Championships, Vancouver Canada
NZ Results
16 to 19 women
9 2308 Hayleigh NITERL 1:30:21.33 +7:15.69
10 2305 Jessica ROETS 1:31:56.88 +8:51.24
16 to19 men
2 2926 Alexander SMITH 1:10:09.46 +20.69
3 2905 Daniel HINE 1:10:50.33 +1:01.56
5 2904 Cameron TODD 1:12:16.45 +2:27.68
20 to 24 women
1 2321 Sarah JACK 1:24:28.87 0.00
20 to 24 men
2 2930 Ian CLARK 1:11:28.06 +1:26.35
4 2929 Clay GULLIVER 1:13:52.39 +3:50.68
25 to 29 Men
6 3004 Te Kawa ROBB 1:15:18.03 +5:29.10
30 to 34 Women
4 2402 Mel CUTLER 1:29:40.40 +2:37.92
30 to 34 Men
12 3055 Benjamin EITELBERG 1:19:30.90 +9:03.53
35 to 39 Men
11 3112 Warren SUTHERLAND 1:18:43.40 +5:43.43
40 to 44 Men
13 3205 David BROWN 1:22:07.88 +7:56.56
24 3207 Darin ROBINSON 1:25:51.90 +11:40.58
50 to 54 Women
5 2602 Glynn PRITCHETT 1:37:53.78 +3:50.10
11 2607 Sue COOMBES 1:45:13.32 +11:09.64
65 to 69 Men
5 2835 John GORDON 1:56:12.29 +13:33.82
75 to 79 Men
1 2846 Anthony SEPIE 2:19:07.28 0.00
Saturday, 7 June 2008
Nicky Samuels out of worlds
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
6th June 2008.
World number 14 ranked triathlete Nicky Samuels received news of the worst kind this morning regarding her ongoing pelvic problem. The Whangarei athlete has a stress fracture and is out of the World Championships and all racing and training for the next 8 weeks.
Obviously the 25 year old is gutted.
"I have just received news of my pelvis problem. Nothing was helping the pain and so we got a bone scan done here in Canada. It is conclusive that I have a stress fracture in my pelvis and have been advised to have 8 weeks off. That's not walking, not standing, not running, not cycling and swimming only if pain free, which it is not. So this is bad news, very bad news, but it is done, nothing I can do about it.
"With racing and training it looks like I can start back mid to the end of July and perhaps head back to France in late August to race the Parthenay triathlon, the last two Grand Prix races and last two ITU races but this is all up in the air at the moment and eight weeks off is going to be hard to come back from....but with me, not impossible!"
Tri NZ High Performance Manager Stephen Farrell is disappointed for Samuels with the injury coming at the worst time of the year.
"This was Nicky's big focus, to race well at the World Championships so it is desperately bad news for her. She has been trying for some time to get to the bottom of the pain and discomfort so if there is a silver lining it is that she at last knows what has been hampering her. With rest and rehab she will recover and come back stronger than ever, for now though there will be only disappointment, something we will help her through as best we can.
6th June 2008.
World number 14 ranked triathlete Nicky Samuels received news of the worst kind this morning regarding her ongoing pelvic problem. The Whangarei athlete has a stress fracture and is out of the World Championships and all racing and training for the next 8 weeks.
Obviously the 25 year old is gutted.
"I have just received news of my pelvis problem. Nothing was helping the pain and so we got a bone scan done here in Canada. It is conclusive that I have a stress fracture in my pelvis and have been advised to have 8 weeks off. That's not walking, not standing, not running, not cycling and swimming only if pain free, which it is not. So this is bad news, very bad news, but it is done, nothing I can do about it.
"With racing and training it looks like I can start back mid to the end of July and perhaps head back to France in late August to race the Parthenay triathlon, the last two Grand Prix races and last two ITU races but this is all up in the air at the moment and eight weeks off is going to be hard to come back from....but with me, not impossible!"
Tri NZ High Performance Manager Stephen Farrell is disappointed for Samuels with the injury coming at the worst time of the year.
"This was Nicky's big focus, to race well at the World Championships so it is desperately bad news for her. She has been trying for some time to get to the bottom of the pain and discomfort so if there is a silver lining it is that she at last knows what has been hampering her. With rest and rehab she will recover and come back stronger than ever, for now though there will be only disappointment, something we will help her through as best we can.
Friday, 6 June 2008
Wet and cold conditions for world junior championships
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
6th June 2008.
Wet, windy and cold conditions greeted the elite junior (U19) athletes as action got underway at the World Triathlon Championships in Canada this morning New Zealand time.
Conditions were so miserable in fact that the planned opening ceremony and nations march past were postponed, with rain adding to the discomfort levels of temperatures barely reached double figures.
The rain made the tight bike course treacherous and the chilly 13 degree water temperature made the swim all the more challenging.
New Zealanders generally fared well with four top 25 placings, highlighted by Tom Davison's 9th in the junior men's race and Sophie Corbidge's 12th in the junior women's race.
Results are all the more impressive given that most of the New Zealand athletes have one and in some cases two more years in the age group, hinting at possible podium finishes in the next couple of years.
16 year old Edward Rawles (Inglewood) has two more years in the Junior category as does Sophie Corbidge (Auckland). Of the others competing this morning, all have one more year in the age group apart from Nicola McKay who will now move on to the U23 category.
World Triathlon Championships, 6th June 2008, Vancouver, Canada
Elite Junior Women (U19)
1. Kirsty McWilliam, GBR, 01:04:05
2. Ashleigh Gentle, AUS, 01:04:43
3. Zsofia, Toth, HUN, 01:04:47
4. Ashley Finaughty, ZIM, 01:05:07
5. Emma Jackson, AUS, 01:05:18
6. Alena Stawczynski, GER, 01:05:22
7. Claudia Rivas, MEX, 01:05:23
8. Maaike Caelers, NED, 01:05:27
9. Paula Findlay, CAN, 01:05:28
10. Nataliya Efremova, RUS, 01:05:32
Plus NZers
12. Sophie Corbidge, Auckland, NZL, 01:05:36
30. Rebecca Kingsford, Tirau, NZL, 01:07:20
42. Nicola McKay, Tauranga, NZL, 01:10:39
Elite Junior Men (U19)
1. Vincent Luis, France 0:57:06
2. Denis Vasiliev, Russia 0:57:36
3. Jonathon Brownlee, Great Britain 0:57:43
4. Joshua Amberger, Australia 0:57:52
5. Rodrigo Gonzalez, Mexico 0:58:19
6. Franz Loeschke, Germany 0:58:24
7. Min Ho Heo, Korea 0:58:26
8. Igor Polyanskiy, Russia 0:58:35
9. Tom Davison, Chch, New Zealand 0:58:39
10. David Obozil, France 0:58:40
Plus NZers
11. Edward Rawles, Inglewood, NZL 00:58:40
25. Jos Hoetjes, Chch, NZL 00:59:25
6th June 2008.
Wet, windy and cold conditions greeted the elite junior (U19) athletes as action got underway at the World Triathlon Championships in Canada this morning New Zealand time.
Conditions were so miserable in fact that the planned opening ceremony and nations march past were postponed, with rain adding to the discomfort levels of temperatures barely reached double figures.
The rain made the tight bike course treacherous and the chilly 13 degree water temperature made the swim all the more challenging.
New Zealanders generally fared well with four top 25 placings, highlighted by Tom Davison's 9th in the junior men's race and Sophie Corbidge's 12th in the junior women's race.
Results are all the more impressive given that most of the New Zealand athletes have one and in some cases two more years in the age group, hinting at possible podium finishes in the next couple of years.
16 year old Edward Rawles (Inglewood) has two more years in the Junior category as does Sophie Corbidge (Auckland). Of the others competing this morning, all have one more year in the age group apart from Nicola McKay who will now move on to the U23 category.
World Triathlon Championships, 6th June 2008, Vancouver, Canada
Elite Junior Women (U19)
1. Kirsty McWilliam, GBR, 01:04:05
2. Ashleigh Gentle, AUS, 01:04:43
3. Zsofia, Toth, HUN, 01:04:47
4. Ashley Finaughty, ZIM, 01:05:07
5. Emma Jackson, AUS, 01:05:18
6. Alena Stawczynski, GER, 01:05:22
7. Claudia Rivas, MEX, 01:05:23
8. Maaike Caelers, NED, 01:05:27
9. Paula Findlay, CAN, 01:05:28
10. Nataliya Efremova, RUS, 01:05:32
Plus NZers
12. Sophie Corbidge, Auckland, NZL, 01:05:36
30. Rebecca Kingsford, Tirau, NZL, 01:07:20
42. Nicola McKay, Tauranga, NZL, 01:10:39
Elite Junior Men (U19)
1. Vincent Luis, France 0:57:06
2. Denis Vasiliev, Russia 0:57:36
3. Jonathon Brownlee, Great Britain 0:57:43
4. Joshua Amberger, Australia 0:57:52
5. Rodrigo Gonzalez, Mexico 0:58:19
6. Franz Loeschke, Germany 0:58:24
7. Min Ho Heo, Korea 0:58:26
8. Igor Polyanskiy, Russia 0:58:35
9. Tom Davison, Chch, New Zealand 0:58:39
10. David Obozil, France 0:58:40
Plus NZers
11. Edward Rawles, Inglewood, NZL 00:58:40
25. Jos Hoetjes, Chch, NZL 00:59:25
Monday, 2 June 2008
Bruce Hunter and Katherine Anton take out NZ duathlon titles
For the first time in ten years the New Zealand Duathlon Championships were held in Auckland. The location was Auckland City's Tank Farm on a fast flat and technical course. This is a change from the traditional rural location on one or two lap courses.
Bruce Hunter took out both the Under 23 title as well as the overall men's title. The 21 year old has been gaining is stature in duathlon circles over recent years and much is expected of him.
Katherine Anton, second in the TriNZ My Sport series took out the women's race after a close tussle with Victoria Beck.
Full results here.
Bruce Hunter took out both the Under 23 title as well as the overall men's title. The 21 year old has been gaining is stature in duathlon circles over recent years and much is expected of him.
Katherine Anton, second in the TriNZ My Sport series took out the women's race after a close tussle with Victoria Beck.
Full results here.
2008 BG Triathlon World Championships in Vancouver, Canada this week
Press Release: ITU via Triathlon New Zealand.
2nd June, 2008.
Vancouver, Canada - This week Vancouver hosts the 2008 BG Triathlon World Championships at scenic English Bay and Stanley Park. Construction of the venue and temporary stadium has already begun and continues through tomorrow (all times local Vancouver time, 19 hours ahead on New Zealand).
Close to 3,000 athletes from more than 60 countries will compete in all categories. It will be the biggest sporting event to hit Vancouver before the 2010 Winter Olympic Games and will be the final qualifier to determine the Canada's Olympic triathlon team for Beijing this summer.
The world championships venue will have a festival-feel over the four days as thousands will be taking in the race action, sport expo/triathlon village, opening ceremonies, and parade of nations. The Vancouver BG Triathlon World Championships are the 20th in the history for the International Triathlon Union (ITU). It's the fourth time the event will be held in Canada and first time since Edmonton hosted in 2001. Other Canadian host cities include: Huntsville/Muskoka, Ont. (1992) and Montreal, Que. (1999).
Thursday, June 5th
Future Olympians and triathlon stars will kick off the racing as new junior women's and men's world champions will be crowned.
7am - Junior Women world championship
9am - Junior Men world championship
10:30am - Junior medal ceremonies
2:30pm - Parade of Nations and Opening Ceremonies (English Bay). More than 60 nations will line up on Beach Ave for the opening festivities.
Friday, June 6th
6:30am - Age-group sprint distance world championship
2pm - Official pre-race press conference (venue media centre).
Athletes in attendance include Canadians Simon Whitfield, Lauren Groves (the only two Canadians who have pre-qualified for Beijing), Kirsten Sweetland, Paul Tichelaar, defending world champion Vanessa Fernandes of Portugal and last year's silver medalist Javier Gomez of Spain.
Saturday, June 7th
6:30am - Corporate Challenge
6:45am - Athletes with a Disability (AWAD) world championship
7:15am - Age-group Olympic distance world championship
Sunday, June 8th
7am - Under23 women world championship
10am - Under23 men world championship
1pm - Elite women world championship
4pm - Elite men world championship
6:15pm - Under23 & Elite medal ceremonies
7:00pm - Post-race press conference **estimated time
7:30pm - Closing ceremonies & age-group medal ceremonies (GM Place)
2nd June, 2008.
Vancouver, Canada - This week Vancouver hosts the 2008 BG Triathlon World Championships at scenic English Bay and Stanley Park. Construction of the venue and temporary stadium has already begun and continues through tomorrow (all times local Vancouver time, 19 hours ahead on New Zealand).
Close to 3,000 athletes from more than 60 countries will compete in all categories. It will be the biggest sporting event to hit Vancouver before the 2010 Winter Olympic Games and will be the final qualifier to determine the Canada's Olympic triathlon team for Beijing this summer.
The world championships venue will have a festival-feel over the four days as thousands will be taking in the race action, sport expo/triathlon village, opening ceremonies, and parade of nations. The Vancouver BG Triathlon World Championships are the 20th in the history for the International Triathlon Union (ITU). It's the fourth time the event will be held in Canada and first time since Edmonton hosted in 2001. Other Canadian host cities include: Huntsville/Muskoka, Ont. (1992) and Montreal, Que. (1999).
Thursday, June 5th
Future Olympians and triathlon stars will kick off the racing as new junior women's and men's world champions will be crowned.
7am - Junior Women world championship
9am - Junior Men world championship
10:30am - Junior medal ceremonies
2:30pm - Parade of Nations and Opening Ceremonies (English Bay). More than 60 nations will line up on Beach Ave for the opening festivities.
Friday, June 6th
6:30am - Age-group sprint distance world championship
2pm - Official pre-race press conference (venue media centre).
Athletes in attendance include Canadians Simon Whitfield, Lauren Groves (the only two Canadians who have pre-qualified for Beijing), Kirsten Sweetland, Paul Tichelaar, defending world champion Vanessa Fernandes of Portugal and last year's silver medalist Javier Gomez of Spain.
Saturday, June 7th
6:30am - Corporate Challenge
6:45am - Athletes with a Disability (AWAD) world championship
7:15am - Age-group Olympic distance world championship
Sunday, June 8th
7am - Under23 women world championship
10am - Under23 men world championship
1pm - Elite women world championship
4pm - Elite men world championship
6:15pm - Under23 & Elite medal ceremonies
7:00pm - Post-race press conference **estimated time
7:30pm - Closing ceremonies & age-group medal ceremonies (GM Place)
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